Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso made a strong statement in response to recent U.S. threats of arrest and possible invasion, declaring:
“Either we agree to fight for our country or we remain slaves forever.”
This declaration came amid heightened tensions following accusations from U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) about Burkina Faso’s military regime and its handling of mineral revenues. Traoré’s message emphasizes a firm stance on sovereignty and resistance against foreign interference.
In a speech during the ceremony of rising colors on April 1, 2025, Traoré also said: “If we have to say it loud and clear here, we are not in a democracy, we are in revolution, popular progressive.”
He stressed that Burkina Faso is undergoing a revolutionary process necessary for true development, rejecting the notion that democracy alone can solve the country’s challenges without first addressing systemic issues rooted in neocolonialism and poverty.
Following General Michael Langley’s April 3, 2025, statement accusing Burkina Faso’s regime of using gold reserves to sustain itself rather than benefit the people, Traoré’s government condemned the remarks as “regrettable” and “gravely inaccurate,” reaffirming their commitment to fighting corruption and promoting transparency.
Traoré’s defiant words reflect his administration’s rejection of external pressures and underscore the resolve to maintain Burkina Faso’s independence and dignity in the face of international criticism.
