By John Ikani
Sudan has recalled its ambassador to Chad, Osman Mohamed Younis, as tensions escalate over border control and accusations of Chadian support for a rebel group.
The move follows repeated claims by the Sudanese government that Chad is facilitating the movement of military supplies to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) through its borders.
The RSF has been locked in conflict with the Sudanese army since mid-April 2023.
These accusations are not recent. Last year, Sudanese officials accused Chad of allowing the United Arab Emirates to deliver weapons and ammunition to the RSF through Chadian territory.
A Sudanese government source told Sudan Tribune that Chad is actively assisting the RSF by enabling the flow of supplies from the UAE and facilitating the movement of the RSF commander and foreign fighters recruited by the group.
The source further alleged, “Chad is meddling in Sudanese affairs by using its territory as a channel for RSF supplies. All Emirati aid to the militia is routed through Chad, and Sudan has provided evidence to support this claim.”
Sudan also submitted a detailed report to the Chadian government regarding border security concerns. However, the lack of response from Chad prompted the recall of the ambassador for consultations.
“Our concerns have been ignored,” lamented a Sudanese diplomatic source. “Despite repeated attempts to address border security issues, Chad has failed to take action. This inaction left us with no choice but to recall our ambassador.” The ambassador is expected to return to Chad after necessary discussions.
This diplomatic spat is not the first between the two nations. In December, Chad expelled four Sudanese diplomats over accusations of interference in their internal conflict. Sudan retaliated by expelling three Chadian diplomats.
Furthermore, earlier this year, Sudan’s representative at the United Nations accused Chad of supplying weapons, supplies, and mercenaries to the RSF, fueling the ongoing conflict.
The latest development further strains relations between Sudan and Chad, jeopardizing regional stability amidst the ongoing conflict.
