Paris, France – French authorities are investigating allegations that Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno misused public funds to finance a luxurious shopping spree in Paris. The probe comes amidst concerns about transparency and poverty in the oil-rich Central African nation.
The investigation began in January after French investigative outlet Mediapart reported that Deby spent over €900,000 ($965,000) on high-end clothing from the French capital through two bank transfers. These funds allegedly came from a company called MHK Full Business, with no clear explanation for its origin.
The Chadian presidency vehemently denied the accusations. A spokesperson claimed Deby prefers traditional attire and accused an advisor of making the purchases for “political manipulation.” The advisor, however, reportedly stated the president only wore the Western outfits a handful of times and was unaware of the purchasing process.
The probe adds another layer of scrutiny to Deby’s leadership. He assumed power in 2021 following the death of his father, Idriss Deby Itno, who ruled Chad for three decades. Deby Jr.’s subsequent election victory was marred by accusations of violence against opposition figures.
Chad, despite its oil wealth, grapples with severe poverty. According to the World Bank, a staggering 35% of the population lives on less than $2.15 a day. This disparity fuels concerns about the alleged misuse of public funds for personal gain.
France, a key ally of Chad, is also undergoing a significant military shift in the region. Following troop withdrawals from neighboring Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, France plans to significantly reduce its military presence in Chad, downsizing from 1,000 personnel to around 300.
