Authorities in Burkina Faso have announced the disruption of a major conspiracy aimed at assassinating the nation's military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The security services reportedly intercepted the operation in its final stages, preventing what could have been a devastating attack on the country's leadership.
Details of the Foiled Assassination Plan
In a late-night national broadcast, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana revealed that the plot was orchestrated by former junta chief Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba. Damiba was ousted from power by Captain Traoré in September 2022. According to Minister Sana, the conspirators had planned to kill the head of state and then launch strikes against other key state institutions and civilian personalities.
The attack was allegedly scheduled for just after 11:00 PM local time on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Investigators claim to have uncovered a leaked video in which the plotters discussed methods for the assassination, including killing the president at close range or planting explosives at his residence.
Foreign Funding and Regional Tensions
A significant allegation from the Burkinabè government is that the plot received financial backing from neighbouring Ivory Coast. Minister Sana specified that foreign funding included 70 million CFA francs (approximately $125,000 or £92,000) sourced from there. The plotters also allegedly intended to disable the country's drone-launch base to prevent foreign military intervention.
This accusation marks another chapter in the strained relations between Burkina Faso's junta and Ivory Coast, which has previously been accused of interference. Neither Colonel Damiba, who is currently in exile in Togo, nor the Ivorian government has publicly commented on these latest allegations.
Arrests and Ongoing Pressure on Traoré's Rule
Minister Sana confirmed that several arrests have been made in connection with the plot and that investigations are ongoing. "These individuals will be brought to justice soon," he stated, urging citizens not to be misled into dangerous schemes.
This foiled plot represents at least the third known attempt to overthrow or assassinate Captain Traoré since he seized power. The 37-year-old leader continues to grapple with severe jihadist violence that has displaced millions of people across Burkina Faso. Despite criticism over authoritarian tactics and restrictions on media, Traoré maintains considerable popular support domestically and is recognised in some pan-African circles for his stance against Western influence.
The internal power struggle, exemplified by this alleged plot involving his predecessor, highlights the persistent instability within the country's leadership and the potential for heightened tensions across the West African region.
