AU Chairperson Condemns French NGO

(Press Release)-The Chairperson of the African Union Commission continues to monitor with very special attention, the case of the Chadian children at the heart of the judicial inquiry against the French NGO “Arche de Zoe”. The Chairperson of the Commission had, at that time, last 27 October, condemned the unjustifiable, scandalous behaviour of that Association, and hailed the firm stands taken by the Chadian and French governments on this affair.

Undoubtedly, the behaviour of the association “Arche de Zoe” constitutes an abuse of humanitarian interference, especially when it is carried out unilaterally and without humility. Such behaviour reflects the irresponsible exploitation of the poverty, misery and distress of our populations in times of conflict; it is one of the consequences of the inaccurate, simplistic information peddled about Africa, especially on African conflicts such as that of Darfur/Sudan.

Africa cannot afford to be a land of outlaws and lawlessness, a land of adventure for all types of adventurers, a land of “new messiahs” and “new crusades”. What is at stake is the dignity and respect of our people, and respect for Man, in short. There is just one answer to that: a more responsible Africa assuming its own destiny and counting above all on itself, assuming its principle of non-indifference in a democratic context to settle its conflicts with assurance, and avoiding tragedies such as the one unfolding in Darfur/Sudan. It is absolutely necessary to treat the “Arche de Zoe” case with due respect for the sovereignty of Chad and Chadian institutions, and also in accordance with respect for human rights and the rule of law.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission hereby reaffirms his solidarity with the affected families and his support to the people and government of Chad.

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