Burkina Faso’s President Survives Another Coup Attempt 

iexclusivenews -Burkina Faso’s interim president, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has faced another coup attempt, the fourth one since he seized power in September 2022.

The plot, allegedly orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, involved a planned explosion at the presidential residence.

Damiba, who briefly served as interim president before Traoré’s coup, was arrested along with other suspects.

Traoré’s Controversial Leadership

Ibrahim Traoré has been a controversial figure in Burkina Faso’s politics, as he has pursued various reforms and policies that have challenged the status quo and provoked opposition from some quarters. Some of his initiatives include:

– Taking swift action against jihadists, who have been terrorizing the country and its neighbours for years.

– Reclaiming land that was illegally seized by powerful elites and redistributing it to the poor and displaced.

– Implementing anti-corruption programs and cracking down on graft and embezzlement.

– Courting Russia as a strategic partner and distancing himself from France, the former colonial power that still exerts influence in the region.

– Navigating the difficult transition to civilian government and promising to hold free and fair elections.

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Traoré’s Allies and Enemies

Traoré’s bold moves have earned him both allies and enemies, both within and outside Burkina Faso.

On one hand, he has forged a mutual defense pact with Mali and Niger, two neighbouring countries that also face security threats from armed groups.

He has also secured the support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has offered military and economic assistance to Burkina Faso.

On the other hand, he has faced resistance from some elements within the military, who have been accused of plotting coups against him.

He has also aroused suspicion from some Western countries, especially France, who may see him as a threat to their interests in Burkina Faso, a country rich in natural resources such as gold, zinc, copper, and more.

Traoré’s Challenges and Opportunities

Ibrahim Traoré’s survival of another coup attempt shows that he still faces significant challenges in his quest to stabilize and develop Burkina Faso.

Some of his critics argue that he has reneged on his promises of holding elections and addressing security issues in the country.

They also accuse him of being authoritarian and divisive.

However, Traoré also has opportunities to prove his critics wrong and win the trust and support of his people.

He can leverage his alliances with other African countries and Russia to enhance his legitimacy and capacity.

Ibrahim Traoré can also demonstrate his commitment to democracy and development by delivering on his reforms and policies.

He can also foster a spirit of unity and cooperation among Africans, who have suffered from historical conflicts and divisions.

Traoré’s fate may depend on how he balances his challenges and opportunities, and how he responds to the next coup attempt, which may not be far away.