A scheme to assassinate Burkina Faso’s military leader, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, has been uncovered, according to the West African country’s announcement.
The elaborate scheme was conceived by Lt Col Paul Henri Damiba, the military official removed by Traoré in September 2022, according to a late-night announcement from the security minister.
“Our intelligence agencies detected this operation in the last moments. They had intended to kill the head of state and then attack other important institutions, including public figures,” stated Mahamadou Sana, adding that the conspiracy was supported by neighboring Ivory Coast.
No statement has been made by either Col Damiba or Ivory Coast.
After coming to power, Capt Traoré has encountered at least two coup attempts and is also dealing with increasing jihadist attacks that have displaced millions from their residences.
Although facing these difficulties and having a strict image, the 37-year-old military figure continues to enjoy significant public backing and has attracted followers throughout the continent due to his pan-African ideals and opposition to Western influence.
As stated by the security minister, the officials discovered a leaked video depicting the conspirators talking about their schemes.
In the video, they are said to have discussed their plan to kill the president—either up close or by placing bombs at his home—just after 11:00 PM local time on Saturday, January 3rd.
Subsequently, they are said to have intended to attack additional high-ranking military and government officials.
Sana claimed that Damiba had gathered both military personnel and civilian allies, obtained international financial support—particularly 70 million CFA francs ($125,000; £92,000) provided by Ivory Coast—and intended to destroy the nation’s drone-launch facility before external forces could step in.
“We are conducting continuous inquiries and have arrested a number of people. These individuals will face legal consequences shortly,” the minister stated on national television.
Sana maintained that the circumstances were manageable and advised residents “not to be deceived, due to innocence, into hazardous plans.”
It remains uncertain how many individuals have been taken into custody.
Both local and international critics have charged Traoré with authoritarian behavior, claiming his administration silences opposition through actions such as the arbitrary detention of military personnel and limitations on media freedom.
This is not the first instance where the junta has accused foreign entities of meddling in its internal matters regarding Ivory Coast.
Ongoing internal conflicts will intensify regional disputes.
Colonel Damiba was the leader of Burkina Faso from January to September 2022, following a takeover from an elected administration.
After being ousted,He stated in a social media post that he hopes his successor achieves all success..
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