OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso — Burkina Faso’s junta has announced it has thwarted a plot to assassinate Capt. Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s military leader who seized power in September 2022.
Security Minister Mahamadou Sana said intelligence services intercepted the plan “in the final hours,” alleging it was masterminded by Lt Col Paul Henri Damiba, the officer Traoré ousted. Sana further claimed the operation was funded by neighbouring Ivory Coast, though officials there have not commented.
Details of the Alleged Plot against Burkina Faso’s Capt. Ibrahim Traoré Foiled
Authorities say a leaked video shows conspirators discussing how to kill Traoré — either at close range or by planting explosives at his residence — just after 23:00 local time on January 3.
- Plans reportedly included targeting other senior military and civilian figures.
- Damiba allegedly mobilised soldiers and civilian supporters, secured 70 million CFA francs ($125,000) in foreign funding, and intended to disable Burkina Faso’s drone‑launch base before outside forces could intervene.
- Several arrests have been made, though numbers remain unclear.
Traoré’s Rule and Challenges
Since taking power, Traoré has faced at least two coup attempts and continues to battle jihadist violence that has displaced millions. Despite accusations of authoritarianism — including arbitrary arrests and restrictions on media — the 37‑year‑old leader enjoys strong domestic support and has cultivated a pan‑Africanist image, gaining followers across the continent for his criticism of Western influence.
Regional Implications
This is not the first time Burkina Faso’s junta has accused Ivory Coast of interference. Analysts warn that such allegations, combined with internal rivalries, could heighten tensions in West Africa, a region already destabilised by multiple coups in recent years.
Background on Damiba
Damiba led Burkina Faso from January to September 2022 after ousting an elected government, only to be removed himself by Traoré. He later went into exile in Togo, publicly wishing his successor “every success.”