N’DJAMENA, Nov 4 (Reuters)

Chad’s interim President, Mahamat Idriss Deby, has announced that Chad may withdraw from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a multinational coalition established to combat insurgent groups in the Lake Chad Basin. This statement was made during Deby’s visit to the Lake Chad region, where he addressed escalating violence that has taken a toll on Chadian forces.

Background of the MNJTF

The MNJTF, launched in 2015, was designed to coordinate military efforts among Chad, Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon against insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP). The coalition was intended to foster cross-border intelligence sharing, enhance joint operations, and increase the effectiveness of counterterrorism measures across the region. However, recent events have cast doubt on the efficacy of the coalition and its capacity for coordination.

Recent Attack and Chad’s Response

Chad’s decision comes in the wake of an October assault on Chadian forces that killed approximately 40 soldiers. The attackers, suspected to be Boko Haram militants, carried out the ambush in the Lake Chad region, an area known for its vulnerability to insurgent activity. Following the attack, President Deby announced the launch of a national operation targeting the attackers, highlighting his government’s commitment to addressing security threats independently if necessary.

During his visit, Deby condemned what he described as “the lack of joint efforts against the common enemy.” He expressed frustration with MNJTF’s apparent lack of cohesion, stating, “This force, created with the aim of pooling efforts and intelligence, seems to be in a slump.” This criticism reflects longstanding frustrations that Chad has voiced regarding the lack of operational unity and effective coordination within the MNJTF.

The Role of Chad in Regional Security

Chad’s military has long been considered one of the most capable forces in the region, especially when it comes to desert and guerrilla warfare. Chadian troops have consistently played a critical role in MNJTF operations and have been instrumental in pushing back against insurgent advances. In recent years, Chad has taken on a disproportionate burden in counterinsurgency operations, with its forces actively engaging insurgent groups not only in Chad but also across the borders in neighboring countries.

Analysts warn that a Chadian withdrawal could severely impact the MNJTF’s effectiveness, as the coalition would lose access to Chad’s highly trained and experienced forces.

Challenges Facing the MNJTF

The MNJTF has faced numerous operational challenges since its inception, including logistical difficulties, insufficient funding, and coordination problems among the participating nations. Internal divisions and inconsistent support from member countries have further undermined its operations, making it difficult to execute comprehensive strategies across borders. These challenges have left gaps in the coalition’s defenses, allowing insurgent groups to regroup and carry out further attacks in the Lake Chad Basin.

The region, which spans areas in Chad, Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon, has long been vulnerable to insurgent activity. Boko Haram, which originated in Nigeria in 2009, has since expanded its operations to Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, creating a regional crisis that has displaced millions and strained national resources.

Potential Implications of Chad’s Withdrawal

If Chad withdraws, the MNJTF would lose one of its most reliable contributors. Chad’s forces have consistently provided both manpower and logistical support, often taking the lead in challenging operations. A Chadian exit could embolden insurgent groups, who may perceive the withdrawal as a weakening of the coalition. Additionally, without Chad’s contribution, the remaining MNJTF countries may find it difficult to maintain

Source:https://www.reuters.com/