CHAD: Government’s Anti-Corruption Efforts Under Fire

N’DJAMENA, CHAD - Corruption Plagues Country Despite Government Initiatives

The government of Chad has launched several initiatives to combat corruption in recent years, but critics argue that these efforts are largely symbolic and aimed at silencing political opponents.

Symbolic Efforts?

In 2009, the Ministry of Morality and Good Governance was established to tackle corruption, but an investigation into high-ranking officials was later dropped due to lack of evidence. The government also launched Operation Cobra, which led to the dismissal of over 400 officials and the recovery of millions of euros in stolen funds.

Critics Speak Out

Experts say that these efforts are often used as a means to eliminate political opposition rather than genuinely addressing corruption. The Bertelsmann Transformation Index and the US Department of State have both criticized the government’s anti-corruption initiatives for being politically motivated.

Protests and Calls for Change

Protests against corruption and authoritarianism by President Déby have been ongoing since 2014, but have yet to yield any significant results. Thousands of Chadians have taken to the streets, demanding greater transparency and accountability from their leaders.

“The government’s anti-corruption efforts are just a smokescreen for its own corruption,” said Amine Abakar, a leading opposition figure. “We need real reforms, not just token gestures.”

Corruption Perception Index

The Chadian government has faced widespread criticism for its handling of corruption and human rights abuses. In 2020, the country was ranked 161st out of 180 countries in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

Hope for Change?

Despite these challenges, some observers believe that there is still hope for change in Chad. “While the government’s efforts may be flawed, they do show a willingness to address corruption,” said Dr. Fatima Ahmat, a political scientist at N’Djamena University.

“What we need now is greater transparency and accountability from all parties involved.”

Conclusion

As the country grapples with these issues, one thing is clear: only through genuine reforms and a commitment to transparency can Chad hope to overcome its corruption epidemic and build a brighter future for its citizens.