AES. Massive Support for President Traoré: Burkina Faso Stands Against American Accusations
In a rare patriotic sur
ge, cities like Ouagadougou, Bobo-Dioulasso, and even remote areas saw their streets flooded with demonstrators determined to proclaim their support for the head of state, accused by the head of US AFRICOM of diverting national gold for personal purposes.
Waving banners with striking slogans (“Traoré, the people are with you!”, “No to American interference!”), Burkinabè transformed their discontent into symbolic acts: effigies of General Langley were burned amid cheers, marking a categorical rejection of what they consider an attempt at destabilization.
“These accusations are false and insulting”, declared Serge Nikièma, a protester met at Revolution Square in Ouagadougou.”I came because this is a national call. Every proud son of this country must support a president who fights day and night for our security and development. I even left my work to be here!”
Marchers emphasized the progress made under Traoré’s era: improved living conditions, fight against corruption, and above all, military gains against terrorism.”Before, we were abandoned. Today, we feel the country is taking its destiny into its own hands”, explained Aminata Ouédraogo, a merchant joined in Kaya.
Meanwhile, the National Armed Forces have dealt heavy blows to jihadist groups. According to Maghreb Arab Press (MAP), several hundred terrorists have been neutralized during operations combining airstrikes and ground assaults. Logistic bases have been destroyed, and a significant arsenal seized, confirming the rise in power of local troops.
Yet, the challenge remains immense: since 2015, Burkina Faso, the epicenter of the terrorist threat in West Africa, has lost more than 26,000 lives (civilian and military) under attacks from the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara and Ansar al-Islam. Millions of displaced people are still waiting for a return to normalcy.
Through these demonstrations, Burkina sends a double signal:
The ball is now in the United States’ court: Will Washington revise its communication, or will these tensions risk escalating? One thing is certain: Ibrahim Traoré can count on a solid popular base… and a more offensive army than ever.
#BurkinaFaso #Traoré #PopularSupport #FightAgainstTerrorism #NoToInterference
Moussa Nassourou
AES. Massive Support for President Traoré:
