Title: Chadian peacekeepers from Minusma leave Kidal in protest
Introduction:
Tension is rising in Kidal, in northeastern Mali, where Chadian peacekeepers from the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (Minusma) have decided to leave earlier than planned. This decision follows repeated refusals by the Malian government to grant the necessary flight authorizations to repatriate soldiers and their equipment to Chad. This protest highlights the growing tensions between the Malian transitional authorities and Minusma forces.
Flight authorizations refused:
Chadian peacekeepers recently left the town of Aguelhok, in the Kidal region, by land, due to a lack of flight authorizations obtained from the Malian transitional authorities. This problem now persists in Kidal, where the Chadian contingent has begun to withdraw early. Under the pretext of “reducing unnecessary presence”, the soldiers began to pack up and head towards the town of Gao.
A hasty decision:
If the accelerated departure of Chadian peacekeepers continues, it is possible that the town of Kidal will be abandoned almost two weeks before the date initially planned. This would have a significant impact on the security of this already unstable area, which is currently under the control of the rebels of the Permanent Strategic Framework for Peace, Security and Development (CSP-PSD) coalition. This situation could therefore have worrying consequences on the stabilization process in Mali.
Destruction of equipment and aid to civilian populations:
Due to logistical difficulties, some of the equipment of the Chadian peacekeepers cannot be transported and will have to be destroyed on site. However, another part of this material, such as chairs and office equipment, could be offered to civilian populations living in the Kidal region. This initiative aims to minimize losses and maintain a positive relationship between Minusma and local communities.
Conclusion:
The early departure of Chadian peacekeepers from Kidal highlights the growing tensions between the Malian transitional authorities and Minusma forces. By refusing to provide the necessary flight authorizations, the Malian government is compromising the ability of the UN mission to carry out its stabilization mission. This situation raises concerns about the future of security in the region and highlights the need for increased cooperation between all parties involved.