Burkina Faso-Côte d’Ivoire: Should Burkinabe stateless politicians be expelled to preserve stability between the two countries?
Recently, hostile rhetoric against the Burkinabe authorities has been proliferating on social media and certain Ivorian television platforms. According to several sources, these interventions are reportedly orchestrated by Burkinabe politicians in exile in Côte d’Ivoire, who are close to the ousted regime.
They provide financial and logistical support to corrupt activists and journalists to fuel these smear campaigns. These individuals are exploiting their situation to weaken the regime of Captain Ibrahim Traoré, with no apparent concern from Ivorian authorities.
Such a situation would be inconceivable in Burkina Faso. Indeed, President Traoré would never allow a foreign politician, particularly an Ivorian, to use Burkinabe territory to foment criticism or consider destabilizing actions against his homeland. This asymmetry in behavior raises questions and calls for serious reflection from Ivorian leaders.
These stateless politicians, who are currently attacking the Burkinabe regime from Côte d’Ivoire, could pose a similar threat to Ivorian stability in the future. If their allegiance shifts or their interests are compromised, there is no guarantee that they won’t turn against their hosts. Ivorian authorities should recognize that harboring these individuals jeopardizes cooperation and good relations with Burkina Faso.
The Ivorian National Assembly is urged to examine this situation seriously to prevent any escalation of tensions. It is imperative that Ivorian authorities put an end to these activities by taking firm measures. This could include expelling the Burkinabe politicians involved, whose actions are not only harming Burkina Faso’s stability but also damaging the image and sovereignty of Côte d’Ivoire.
To normalize relations between the two countries, it is time to stop the actions of these malicious actors, who serve neo-colonial interests more than those of their nations. By sending them back to Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire would take a strong stand to preserve regional cooperation and peace.
