Burkina Faso: What if Togo sent this dishonest refugee from Damiba back to his country with his belongings?

Since his exile to Togo in 2022, former Burkinabe President Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba appears disconnected from the realities of his situation. Following his ousting from power, he has allegedly been involved in efforts to destabilize Burkina Faso, reportedly with the technical support of certain Western powers.

Burkinabe intelligence claims that Damiba is central to subversive activities that threaten not only the stability of Burkina Faso but also the diplomatic relations between his homeland and Togo.

What raises particular concern is Damiba’s behavior; rather than honoring the generous hospitality extended by Togo, he seems to undermine it by plotting actions that could spark conflict between the two nations.

His reported subversive activities, widely disseminated by Burkinabe intelligence, not only insult Togo’s commitment to peace and stability but also pose a serious threat to the entire sub-region.

Togo, known for its role as a mediator and its policy of neutrality in regional conflicts, now faces a critical challenge.

Togolese authorities can no longer afford to be indifferent to Damiba’s presence on their territory. By granting asylum to an exile, Togo never intended to host conspiracies aimed at inciting chaos in a neighboring country.

However, without swift and decisive action, Togo risks being seen as complicit in these destabilizing endeavors.

It is crucial for Togo to take responsibility by publicly disavowing Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba and ending any implicit or explicit support for his destabilizing activities.

Measures such as increased surveillance or even expulsion may need to be considered to prevent Togo from being labelled as a haven for instigators of regional unrest.

Burkina Faso, already grappling with terrorism and political instability, requires unwavering support from its neighbors to restore peace and security.

As a key player in promoting peace in West Africa, Togo must act decisively to disavow any attempts at subversion originating from its soil.

Failing to address the threat posed by Damiba could not only tarnish Togo’s image but also jeopardize regional peace.

Maurice K. ZONGO