Burkina Faso: Disbarment of Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba and fourteen officers for offending military dignity

Burkina Faso has taken a decisive step toward strengthening stability and justice within its national army. Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba, who served as transitional president from January to September 2022, along with fourteen other military officers, has been dismissed from the armed forces, as per decrees signed by President Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

This decision, dated October 30, 2024, and announced publicly this past Monday, underscores a clear commitment to restoring the army’s honor and ensuring unity among its members.

The decrees state that the dismissed officers were found guilty of a “particularly serious offense.”

They are accused of actions deemed to undermine military dignity and tarnish the army’s reputation, including alleged “collusion with a foreign power and terrorist groups” to support harmful ventures against Burkina Faso.

These serious charges highlight the government’s heightened vigilance against internal and external threats to national security and stabilization efforts.

This dismissal marks a bold move by Captain Traoré, showcasing his dedication to purging the military ranks and ensuring that its members are fully committed to Burkina Faso’s interests.

The recent actions of Captain Traoré reflect an unwavering resolve to uphold unity and loyalty within the security forces, strengthening the foundation for a secure and resilient Burkina Faso.

Cédric KABORE