Foiled Assassination Plot Shakes Ouagadougou
Burkina Faso’s ruling military officer, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, survived a planned assassination reportedly organized by former leader Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, security officials announced on 6 January 2026. The plot, according to Mahamadou Sana, Burkina Faso’s Minister of Security, targeted the head of state and other top officials, including prominent civilian figures.
Video Evidence and Financial Backing
Authorities revealed a leaked video showing the conspirators discussing their plan to kill Traoré, either at his residence or at close range, on the night of Saturday, 3 January 2026. Sana alleged that Damiba mobilized both soldiers and civilians and obtained foreign funding, notably 70 million CFA francs ($125,000; £92,000) from Ivory Coast. The plot also aimed to neutralize the country’s drone-launch facilities before foreign military intervention could occur.
Ongoing Security Operations
“We are carrying out ongoing investigations and have made several arrests. These individuals will be brought to justice soon,” Sana said on national television, adding that the situation was under control. The total number of arrests has not been disclosed.
Challenges and Regional Implications
Since taking power in September 2022, Traoré, 37, has faced at least two previous coup attempts and is grappling with jihadist insurgencies displacing thousands. While some critics accuse him of authoritarian practices, his pan-Africanist stance has earned him considerable support across West Africa.
Analysts warn that repeated internal power struggles and alleged foreign interference from Ivory Coast could exacerbate regional instability.
