Burkina Faso/Togo: Damiba’s extradition, a legal act that upsets false moralists
The extradition of former Burkinabe President Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba from Togo to Burkina Faso has triggered a wave of criticism and malicious commentary, particularly from certain countries in the sub-region, including Côte d’Ivoire. Yet this procedure, strictly legal and in compliance with international agreements, is nothing exceptional. So, why so much fuss? Why this outrage, when Côte d’Ivoire itself, for example, has resorted to these same mechanisms in the past?
In 2012, Côte d’Ivoire secured the extradition of Lyda Kouassi Moise, who had taken refuge in Togo, as well as that of Charles Blé Goudé from Ghana in 2013. At the time, no one cried scandal.
No one accused Abidjan of trampling on human rights or threatening regional stability. So why today this agitation by the communications vipers?
Why this desire to demonize Togo and Burkina Faso, two countries that are merely applying diplomatic and judicial rules?
Togo is a sovereign nation, a state governed by the rule of law where laws apply to all, without distinction.
Those who think they can use Togolese soil as a rear base to destabilize friendly nations are profoundly mistaken.
Lomé is not a territory for fugitives, but a responsible partner, respectful of international commitments and the principles of judicial cooperation.
The extradition of Damiba falls within this framework. Togo did not act alone, but in concert with Burkinabe authorities, in compliance with established rules.
Those who are angry today would do well to remember that justice knows no borders, and that cooperation between states is essential in the fight against impunity.
Côte d’Ivoire, so ready to give moral lessons, would do better to sweep its own doorstep.
In 2012, it did not hesitate to request the extradition of its opponents from Togo and Ghana. Where were the human rights defenders then? Where were the champions of regional stability?
Everyone knows this is a well-oiled strategy aimed at weakening the AES countries by manipulating public opinion.
Côte d’Ivoire, which turns a blind eye to imperialist interference and the economic pressures exerted against Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, now dares to point the finger at Togo and Ouagadougou.
Let us recall the facts: when ECOWAS, under the guidance of imperialists, tried to strangle the AES countries, Togo, under the leadership of President Faure Gnassingbé, was the only one to say no.
While Benin, a puppet of the imperialists, closed its borders with Niger, the port of Lomé became the economic lifeline for the AES countries, ensuring their supplies and survival.
This solidarity is no accident. It is the result of a shared vision, based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and South-South cooperation.
Relations between Togo and Burkina Faso, as with other AES members, are built on clear principles of non-interference, respect for judicial decisions, and unwavering economic support.
The extradition of former President Damiba is a sovereign, legal, and transparent act. Togo and Burkina Faso, like the other AES countries, have chosen the path of dignity and independence.
Cédric KABORE
