Burkina Faso: A foiled coup attempt
In a press release released this Wednesday evening, September 27, the Burkinabè government announced the foiling of a coup attempt. This news shook the country and highlighted the challenges it faces in its democratic transition. The military prosecutor’s office opened an investigation and four officers were arrested, while two others are still actively sought.
Among the officers arrested are two figures from the National Gendarmerie: Lieutenant-Colonel Cheick Hamza Ouattara and Captain Christophe Maïga. These two officers occupy important positions within the Special Gendarmerie Legion and the Special Intervention Unit, which play a crucial role in the fight against terrorism.
Two other officers were also arrested: Abdoul Aziz Aouoba, commander of the Burkinabè Special Forces, and Boubacar Keita, director general of the Higher Institute of Civil Protection Studies. Security forces are currently questioning them to obtain more information about their alleged involvement in the coup attempt.
According to some sources, the two officers on the run are former members of the national intelligence agency. One of them would be Commander Sekou Ouedraogo, former deputy director general of the agency. He was relieved of his duties by Captain Ibrahim Traoré on September 13.
The military prosecutor’s office appealed to anyone who could provide additional information to testify to the importance of this investigation, given the recurring allegations of destabilization that the country faces.
This attempted coup is a reminder of the persistent challenges Burkina Faso faces in its democratic transition. Since the fall of the Blaise Compaoré regime in 2014, the country has been the scene of growing political and security instability, marked by repeated terrorist attacks.
The foiling of this coup attempt is an encouraging sign for the country, showing the determination of the authorities to preserve stability and continue the democratic process underway. However, it is essential to remain vigilant against these threats and continue to strengthen institutions to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for Burkina Faso.
In conclusion, the foiling of this coup attempt represents an important turning point in the recent history of Burkina Faso. This highlights the challenges the country faces in its democratic transition and underlines the importance of strengthening institutions to preserve stability and promote development. International cooperation is also essential to support Burkina Faso in its efforts to fight terrorism and guarantee the security of its population.