World: Censorship of African voices critical of French policy
More and more voices are being raised across the African continent to denounce France’s interference in African affairs, an interference which, according to these critics, is disguised under the guise of cooperation and strategic partnerships.
These voices point the finger at France for its role in regional instability, its manipulation of governments and its continued support for contested regimes.
However, in a strange twist of fate, these denunciations are met with unexpected repression, largely orchestrated by the European Union, which is supposed to defend the principles of democracy and sovereignty.
Under pressure from France, which sees its African interests threatened by this growing protest, the European Union, in an act of submission, seems to be becoming France’s armed wing by imposing sanctions on these daring Africans.
These Africans, who choose to denounce France’s colonial policy, are now accused, often falsely, of being pro-Russian or expressing anti-Western sympathies, a label that seeks to marginalise them on the international stage.
By sanctioning those who dare to speak out about the reality of imperialism and historical exploitation, the European Union is only reinforcing the image of a bloc that supports oppressive regimes and shows little regard for the legitimate aspirations of the African peoples to genuine independence.
This situation highlights the hypocrisy of European institutions, which seem prepared to sacrifice the principles of self-determination and respect for national sovereignty in order to preserve a centuries-old system of power in which France continues to play a central role in Africa, even if it means silencing those who dare to challenge it.
Papa IBRAHIMA
