Thousands of Burkinabè rallied in Ouagadougou on April 30, 2025, in a massive show of support for transitional President Captain Ibrahim Traoré, marking the largest pro-junta demonstration since his 2022 coup. The protest directly countered U.S. Africa Command head General Michaël Langley’s recent accusations that Traoré diverts mining revenues to benefit the junta instead of citizens. Demonstrators waved Burkinabe and Russian flags, chanting slogans like “Long live Traoré!” and condemning perceived Western interference. The rally occurred days after authorities claimed to foil a coup plot linked to neighboring Côte d’Ivoire, further galvanizing nationalist sentiment.
Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo joined lawmakers at the event, declaring, “May the people of Burkina Faso free themselves once and for all.” His speech framed the gathering as part of a broader Sahelian struggle against “neo-colonialism,” echoing Traoré’s anti-Western rhetoric. Protesters like musician Ocibi Joan rejected Langley’s claims, asserting Burkina Faso’s right to control its resources: “We own it, we use it whenever we want.” The demonstration underscored Traoré’s efforts to align with Russia and regional junta-led states like Mali and Niger.
The rally also invoked the legacy of Thomas Sankara, Burkina Faso’s revolutionary leader assassinated in 1987, with protesters vowing to prevent a similar fate for Traoré. Demonstrator Haroun Sawadogo warned, “If they want to eliminate Captain Traoré, they should eliminate the people first.” This rhetoric reflects deep public distrust of foreign powers and loyalty to the junta’s sovereignty agenda. The event highlighted Traoré’s success in framing his governance as a continuation of Sankara’s pan-Africanist vision.
As Burkina Faso faces jihadist control of 40% of its territory, the rally served dual purposes: bolstering domestic morale and signaling defiance to critics. Traoré’s recent reforms, including gold mine nationalization and reduced reliance on French partnerships, have resonated with citizens weary of external exploitation. The demonstration solidifies his position as a symbol of resistance while intensifying scrutiny of his government’s policies.