What You Need to Know
Burkina Faso has announced the thwarting of an assassination plot against military leader Captain Ibrahim Traore. The plan, allegedly orchestrated by former military officer Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, aimed to assassinate Traore and target other key institutions. The government claims to have arrested several individuals involved in the conspiracy, which was reportedly funded by neighboring Ivory
Africa. Burkina Faso, a country in West Africa, announced the thwarting of a conspiracy to assassinate its military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore. The Minister of Security stated in a televised address late at night that the elaborate plan was orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, the military officer who was ousted by Traore in September 2022.
Mohamed Sana said, “Our intelligence agencies intercepted this operation in the final hours. They were planning to assassinate the head of state and then target other key institutions, including civilian figures,” claiming that neighboring Ivory Coast funded the conspiracy. No comments have been made by Colonel Damiba or Ivory Coast.
Since taking power, Captain Traore has faced at least two coup attempts and is dealing with a surge in jihadist violence that has forced millions to flee their homes.
Despite these challenges, the 37-year-old military leader enjoys widespread public support and has gained popularity across the continent due to his inclusive African vision and criticism of Western influence.
Authorities revealed a leaked video showing the conspirators discussing their plans, according to the Minister of Security. In the video, they allegedly talked about their intention to assassinate the president—either up close or by planting explosives at his residence—shortly after 11:00 PM local time on Saturday, January 3. They also reportedly planned to target other high-ranking military and civilian figures.
Sana stated that Damiba rallied soldiers and civilian supporters, securing foreign funding, notably 70 million West African francs (approximately $125,000; £92,000) from Ivory Coast, and planned to destroy a drone launch base in the country before foreign troops intervened.
The minister said on national television, “We are conducting ongoing investigations, and we have arrested several individuals. These individuals will soon be brought to justice.”
He confirmed that the situation is under control and urged citizens not to be drawn into dangerous plots out of naivety. The number of detainees remains unclear.
This is not the first time the military council has blamed foreign intervention for its issues in Ivory Coast. Colonel Damiba led Burkina Faso from January to September 2022 after seizing power from an elected government. Following his ousting, he fled to neighboring Togo, wishing his successor all the best in a message posted on social media.
Burkina Faso has experienced significant political turmoil in recent years, particularly following the military coup in September 2022 that ousted the elected government. Captain Ibrahim Traore, who took power after the coup, has faced multiple assassination attempts and increasing violence from jihadist groups, leading to widespread displacement within the country. The military government has often cited foreign interference as a factor in its internal challenges, particularly from neighboring countries like Ivory Coast.
