Africa: Sanctions affair/Pan-Africanist Harouna Douamba demands justice and truth from the European Court of Justice
Ivorian-Burkinabe Pan-Africanist Harouna Douamba has taken his fight against European Union sanctions to the EU’s highest legal arena, filing a formal complaint before the European Court of Justice. Douamba isn’t just contesting a decision that personally targets him. He is challenging what he sees as a dangerous trend in EU sanction policies.
The activist’s legal action comes after the EU placed him on its sanctions list on December 16, 2024 a move he calls « slanderous, » damaging his reputation while raising serious concerns over due process. « I was given no prior notice, no right to defend myself, and no fair hearing, » his statement reads.
Douamba argues that the EU’s vague accusations and lack of transparency violate fundamental principles of justice.
He sees the sanctions as part of a broader pattern stifling independent African voices that challenge Western influence on the continent.
« Why is anyone who disagrees with France’s policies in Africa automatically labelled a Russian ally? » he asks pointedly. To him, the EU’s approach conflates Pan-African activism with geopolitical hostility.
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By taking the case to court, Douamba forces the EU to justify its decision and exposes the lack of accountability in its sanctioning process.
If he proves his rights were violated (no prior notice, no access to evidence, no chance to respond), the entire procedure could be overturned.
This legal battle isn’t just about one man it’s about whether the EU’s sanctions regime respects democracy or operates as a tool of political pressure.
The outcome could set a crucial precedent for how Brussels wields its power and who gets to challenge it.
Emile YEMPABE
