Rebel groups in Chad have denied allegations that they are receiving support from neighbouring Sudan. The United Front for Change, a loose grouping of eight rebel groups, has released a statement denying Chadian Government claims that it is being funded by neighbouring Sudan. The statement says that the movement is part of a popular uprising against the Government and is independent of all overseas countries. The rebels are trying to overthrow Chad's President Idriss Deby, who says they are getting arms and money from the Sudanese Government. Sudan has denied the claim but Chad has cut all diplomatic ties with its neighbour and is threatening to evict Sudanese refugees. The rebels now accuse the Chadian Government of recruiting European mercenaries to stay in power.