French President Emmanuel Macron has come under heavy criticism from Senegal and Chad following his statement that African countries in the Sahel region were ungrateful for France’s role in combating jihadist insurgencies. Speaking at a conference in Paris, Macron claimed that without French military intervention, no Sahelian nation would remain sovereign.
Chad’s Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah labeled Macron’s remarks as “contemptuous” and demanded respect for African sacrifices, particularly referencing African soldiers’ contributions during World Wars. Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko accused France of destabilizing parts of Africa, such as Libya, and questioned its ability to ensure Africa’s security or sovereignty.
The remarks come as France’s influence wanes in the region, with countries like Chad, Senegal, and Ivory Coast recently ending military agreements. Nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have also expelled French troops and moved closer to Russia.
Chad’s foreign minister asserted that France’s involvement primarily served its own strategic interests and emphasized Chad’s commitment to pursuing sovereignty in its partnerships.
The fallout reflects growing resistance to France’s historical role in Africa, as countries assert their independence and shift alliances.
