Togo has extradited Burkina Faso’s former transitional president, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, to Ouagadougou following allegations that he was involved in multiple coup and assassination plots, the Togolese government announced on Tuesday.
Damiba came to power in Burkina Faso in January 2022 but was removed nine months later in a military takeover that ushered in the current junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré. Since fleeing to Togo, the former leader has repeatedly been accused by Burkina Faso’s authorities of masterminding attempts to destabilise the country, including fresh allegations earlier this month.
According to Togo’s Justice Minister, Pacome Adjourouvi, Damiba was arrested in Lomé on January 16 in response to an arrest warrant and an extradition request submitted by Burkinabe officials four days earlier. He was subsequently handed over to Burkina Faso authorities the following day.
The former president is facing multiple charges, including criminal embezzlement of public funds, illicit enrichment, corruption, incitement to commit crimes, aggravated concealment, and money laundering.
Adjourouvi said Togo approved the extradition after receiving assurances from Burkina Faso regarding Damiba’s physical safety and his right to a fair trial. He also cited the absence of the death penalty in the case, despite Burkina Faso’s recent decision to reinstate capital punishment for crimes related to high treason.
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