Supporters Rally in Burkina Faso Amid Alleged Coup Plot

OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso — Thousands of supporters of Burkina Faso’s ruling junta gathered in the capital on Wednesday, demonstrating their backing just days after the government announced it had thwarted a plot to overthrow the military leadership.

The rally took place in a central square, where demonstrators waved Burkinabe and Russian flags, carrying large posters of the junta leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore. Slogans such as “Down with imperialism and its local lackeys” and “Full support for President Ibrahim Traore and the people of Burkina Faso” adorned the placards.

This gathering was one of the largest shows of support for Traore, who came to power in a coup in September 2022. The security situation in the country has been deteriorating due to ongoing jihadist attacks that have resulted in thousands of deaths over the past decade.

On April 21, military authorities claimed to have uncovered a “major plot” masterminded from neighboring Ivory Coast, leading to the arrest of several high-ranking military officers. Traore has accused Ivory Coast of harboring opposition figures, claims that the Ivorian government denies.

In the past year, Burkina Faso’s junta has detained numerous military personnel, alleging they were involved in plots to destabilize the government. Authorities have also cracked down on dissent, particularly against civil society and media groups, justifying these actions as part of an effort to combat jihadist violence.

Prime Minister Rimtalba Jean Emmanuel Ouedraogo addressed the rally, attended by numerous ministers and members of parliament, emphasizing that unity is essential. “We must stand up more than ever because when the people stand up, the imperialists tremble,” he said.

Similar rallies occurred in other cities, including Bobo Dioulasso and Boromo, with civil society groups affirming their support for the junta’s leadership. A spokesman for the National Coordination of the Civilian Vigil (CNAVC) stated, “This mobilization is proof that the people are committed to their leaders. We are a shield for Captain Ibrahim Traore and our country.”

One rally organizer, Adama Kima, criticized comments made by U.S. Africa Command chief General Michael Langley, accusing Traore of misusing national gold reserves. Burkina Faso, much like its neighbors Niger and Mali, has distanced itself from traditional allies like France and leaned toward a partnership with Russia.