The European Union said that the Chadian government's decision to expel the German ambassador was "regrettable" and constituted a "hostile step".

On Friday evening, the Chadian government announced the expulsion of the German ambassador , Jan Christian Gordon Kreike, for his "scandalous position" and "disrespect for diplomatic norms," without giving any details.

The German government considered that this decision was "unjustified" and decided to expel the Chadian ambassador in Berlin, Maryam Ali Moussa.

"The decision of the transitional authorities in Chad to expel the German ambassador is regrettable," said Nabila Masrali, spokeswoman for European Union foreign minister Josep Borrell.

She added that this decision "constitutes a hostile step, especially in light of the long-standing partnership and commitment of the European Union and its Member States in Chad, including in the context of the continuation of the ongoing transition."

Kreikeh has been German ambassador to Chad since July 2021.

A source in the Chadian government confirmed to AFP on condition of anonymity that the authorities accuse the diplomat in particular of "excessive interference" in "the governance of the country" and of making "statements that cause division among Chadians."

The German Foreign Ministry said that "Ambassador Kreike performed his duties perfectly and committed himself to human rights and the rapid transition to a civilian government in Chad."

"The European Union reiterates the importance of a speedy return to the constitutional order and a transition within a time-bound period that guarantees respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms," Masrali said.

She stressed that "a comprehensive process supported by all parties, civil and political actors, is necessary to ensure the credibility and legitimacy of the ongoing process, and thus the success of the transitional period."

And she stressed that "the European Union will continue to insist on these points, which are important conditions for its partnership with Chad."

General Mohamed Idriss Deby Itno took over the leadership of Chad in April 2021, succeeding his father, Idriss Deby Itno, who was killed on the front against the rebels after leading this vast coastal country for thirty years.

After that, Mohamed Deby promised the Chadians and the international community to return power to civilians in "free and democratic elections" and not to run for the presidency.

A national dialogue boycotted by much of the opposition and civil society in October chose Déby as head of a "transition" for two years to reach "transparent" elections.