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Reasons French President, Macron Accuses African Leaders of ‘Ungratefulness’ Amid Rising Tensions

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 7th, 2025.

Reasons French President, Macron Accuses African Leaders of ‘Ungratefulness’ Amid Rising Tensions

French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly criticized certain African leaders for what he termed their “ingratitude” in the wake of regional developments, particularly in the context of France’s military presence and security efforts on the continent.

In remarks about the ongoing situation, Macron reflected on the long-standing security partnership between France and African nations, especially in the fight against terrorism. He highlighted France’s role in counterterrorism operations since 2013 and expressed his belief that the country’s contributions had not been adequately acknowledged.

“We’ve had a partnership based on security, and we’ve been fighting terrorism for years. I believe someone has forgotten to express their gratitude, but time will tell,” Macron said. “I say this to all the African leaders who have failed to publicly stand up to public opinion, even though I understand that ingratitude is a problem that cannot be easily spread among men.”

He went on to express sympathy for the French soldiers who had given their lives in the region, emphasizing that without France’s military involvement, African nations would not have achieved sovereignty. “We made the right decision. We left because of the coups. Sovereign states invited us, they wanted France to be there,” he continued. “If it wasn’t for the coups, France would still be there, as the people’s focus was once on fighting terrorism.”

Macron’s comments come after France’s military withdrawal from Niger in December 2023, following a coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. The new military rulers in Niger, who had received support from Macron for the ousted president, demanded the French forces leave, marking a significant shift in the country’s foreign policy.

Relations between France and its former colonies have continued to deteriorate. In November 2024, Niger banned the French aid organization, the Agency for Technical Cooperation and Development (ACTED), further souring ties. Similar requests for the withdrawal of French troops have come from other African nations, including Mali, Senegal, and Chad, in recent years.