Togo has taken a decisive step in the ongoing political turmoil of Burkina Faso by expelling the alleged mastermind behind a series of coup plots. The former transitional president, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, was arrested in neighboring Togo and subsequently expelled, according to sources close to the case. This move comes in the wake of Damiba's alleged involvement in various coup attempts and assassination plots against the current military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore.
Damiba's arrest in Lome last week sparked a trial for 'attempted destabilisation' in Burkina Faso. His associates revealed that he was taken to the airport after the trial, with his destination still unknown. However, some sources suggest that he was likely expelled back to Burkina Faso.
The regional security source and a Togolese source close to the case confirmed the information. As of late Monday, the authorities in Ouagadougou had not yet commented on the matter. This expulsion marks a significant development in the country's political landscape, as Damiba played a pivotal role in the January 2022 coup that ousted President Roch Marc Christian Kabore.
However, Damiba's reign was short-lived, as he was himself deposed eight months later in a coup that brought Captain Ibrahim Traore to power. Since then, Burkina Faso's military junta has accused Damiba of orchestrating several coup plots and assassination attempts against Traore. Earlier this month, they revealed a shocking plan for a series of 'targeted assassinations' of civilian and military authorities on January 3, starting with the neutralisation of Captain Ibrahim Traore.
This development raises questions about the stability of Burkina Faso's political situation and the potential implications for the region. The expulsion of Damiba by Togo highlights the ongoing tensions and power struggles within the country. As the story unfolds, the international community and neighboring nations will closely monitor the situation, awaiting further developments and the potential impact on the region's security and political dynamics.
