Burkina Faso: demonstrations in Ouagadougou in support of President Ibrahim Traoré

In Ouagadougou, hundreds of demonstrators gathered at Revolution Square, waving the flags of Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). Placards condemning Western—particularly American—interference were prominently displayed, with slogans such as “AFRICOM is a terrorist organization” and “No to Western meddling.”

The protests came in response to recent accusations by General Michael Langley, head of U.S. AFRICOM, against President Traoré. The remarks were denounced as “baseless” and “defamatory” by Honoré Samandoulougou, president of the National Coordination of Citizen Watch Associations (CNAVC), who condemned what he called a neo-colonial attempt at destabilization.

Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister Jean-Emmanuel Ouédraogo was present at the rally, leading a government delegation. He delivered an official message from President Traoré, praising the domestic and international mobilization. He urged vigilance in the face of imperialist maneuvers, stating that “1987 is not 2025,” and that “the fighters for freedom are standing tall.”

In response to General Langley’s comments, the prime minister condemned what he called a disinformation campaign, asserting that “this tactic will not succeed this time.” He added that President Traoré remains “determined and composed,” empowered by the strong support of his people.