2024-11-15 15:53:00
After the revelation of the importation of toxic fuel into Guinea, French journalist Thomas Dietrich was sued for defamation by Addax Energy and its owner, Franco-Swiss billionaire Jean-Claude Gandur.
The affair dates back several months, when Thomas Dietrich revealed the importation by Addax Energy of poor quality fuel into Guinea. According to the journalist, these potentially contaminated fuels would have exposed millions of people to major health risks. Beyond the environmental impact, Dietrich highlighted a system of corruption which, according to him, allows the company to escape any strict regulation, particularly in Africa.
Faced with these revelations, Addax Energy and its owner, Jean-Claude Gandur, filed a complaint for “defamation” and are seeking to have Thomas Dietrich sentenced to a heavy fine. The journalist, who has been the subject of multiple pressures and threats since the publication of his investigation, denounces “SLAPP procedures”, attempts aimed at stifling the truth and silencing critical voices. According to him, this legal action is part of a broader strategy of multinationals who use Africa as a “cash drawer” and a “trash bin” for their dubious activities.
On his X account, Thomas Dietrich expressed his determination to defend himself: “On Monday, I will defend myself step by step against this Western multinational which, like so many others, uses Africa as a cash register and a trash can. I will demonstrate to the Swiss justice system how urgent it is for it to take an interest in the murky activities of Addax in Africa,” he declared.
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What are the key points of evidence Thomas Dietrich gathered during his investigation into Addax Energy’s practices?
**Interview with Thomas Dietrich on the Defamation Lawsuit by Addax Energy**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Thomas. Following your investigative report on the importation of toxic fuel into Guinea, you’ve been sued for defamation by Addax Energy and its owner, Jean-Claude Gandur. Can you tell us what led to your investigation?
**Thomas Dietrich:** Thank you for having me. My investigation began when I received numerous reports from local environmental activists and whistleblowers about the potentially hazardous materials being imported into Guinea. They expressed concerns about the health risks to local communities and the environment. As a journalist, it was my duty to look into those claims closely.
**Interviewer:** What specific findings did you uncover in your report?
**Thomas Dietrich:** I found substantial evidence that pointed toward Addax Energy’s involvement in importing fuel that exceeded safe toxicity levels. I collaborated with scientists and local experts who documented the harmful effects of this type of fuel. Our findings suggested that not only were the environmental regulations being ignored, but the well-being of countless local residents was at risk.
**Interviewer:** How did Addax Energy and Jean-Claude Gandur respond to your report?
**Thomas Dietrich:** Shortly after the article was published, Addax Energy issued a statement denying the allegations and claiming that my report was misleading and defamatory. They stated that the fuel in question complies with international regulations. This led to their decision to file a lawsuit against me for defamation.
**Interviewer:** What is your response to the lawsuit, and how do you plan to defend yourself?
**Thomas Dietrich:** I believe in the principles of responsible journalism and the importance of exposing wrongdoing, especially when it pertains to public health and safety. I’m confident that the evidence we’ve gathered will stand up in court. This lawsuit could be seen as an attempt to silence critical voices, but I won’t be deterred from pursuing the truth.
**Interviewer:** What message do you hope to convey through this situation, both to your audience and to companies in similar positions?
**Thomas Dietrich:** I hope to raise awareness about the importance of transparency and accountability in the energy sector. It’s crucial for journalists and the public to hold corporations accountable, especially when their actions pose significant risks to communities. This case is about more than just me; it’s about safeguarding the health and rights of vulnerable populations.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Thomas, for sharing your perspective on this important issue. We wish you the best of luck with your legal battle and your continued reporting.
**Thomas Dietrich:** Thank you, I appreciate your support.