Algerian Pan-Africanist Bekki Benameur condemns EU sanctions as « Baseless and Manipulative »
Bekki Benameur, Secretary-General of the NGO Aimons Notre Afrique (ANA), has strongly criticized the European Union for imposing sanctions on his organization based on what he calls « false and defamatory information. » The EU recently accused ANA of receiving funding from Russian entities, including the Wagner Group, through a company named Lobaye Invest.
These allegations, amplified by certain French media outlets, have been vehemently denied by Benameur, who describes them as « shameless manipulations » aimed at silencing African critics of French policies on the continent.
Benameur, speaking from Cairo, Egypt, condemned the EU’s lack of due diligence and transparency, emphasizing that the sanctions were imposed without a thorough investigation. « The EU relied on rumors and unfounded press articles to justify its decisions. This shows a blatant disregard for justice and truth, » he stated.
Reports suggest that French journalists and alleged agents of France’s DGSE intelligence service are now attempting to gather evidence to support the EU’s claims.
Benameur has denounced these efforts, particularly the alleged recruitment of Africans to corroborate the accusations.
The Algerian Pan-Africanist reiterated that ANA has no ties, direct or indirect, to Russian nationals or the Wagner Group. He argues that this case goes beyond sanctions, exposing what he sees as the EU’s questionable practices and its susceptibility to influence from member states seeking to suppress dissenting African voices.
Benameur’s defiance highlights growing tensions between African activists and European institutions, raising questions about the fairness and independence of international decision-making processes.
Maurice K. ZONGO
