It has been nearly three years since Captain Ibrahim Trare took on the reins of leadership in Burkina Faso.
It has been nearly three years since Captain Ibrahim Trare took on the reins of leadership in Burkina Faso, and speculation is growing in Western media about the nature of his government and whether it can be classified as democratic. The charismatic 37-year-old has skillfully crafted the image of a Pan-African leader determined to liberate his nation from what he perceives as the grip of Western imperialism and neocolonialism.
After seizing power in a coup in 2022, President Trare's regime severed ties with the former colonial power, France, and formed a strong alliance with Russia. This partnership includes the deployment of a Russian paramilitary brigade and the adoption of left-wing economic policies. One notable initiative is the establishment of a state-owned mining company, which requires foreign firms to grant it a 15% stake in their local operations and to transfer skills to the Burkinabè people. This policy also applies to Russian miner Nord Gold, which received a license in late April for its latest investments in Burkina Faso's gold industry as part of what President Trare describes as a revolution to ensure that Burkina Faso benefits from its mineral wealth. The junta is also building a gold refinery and establishing national gold reserves for the first time in the nation's history.
However, Western-owned firms are facing significant challenges. For instance, Australia-based Sarama Resources launched arbitration proceedings against Burkina Faso in late 2024 following the withdrawal of an exploration license. The junta has also nationalized two gold mines previously owned by a London-listed firm and announced plans to take control of more foreign-owned companies.
For many young and disenfranchised individuals, President Trare is viewed as a leader who stands up for Africa. He has spoken against imperialism, urged national unity, and reminded citizens of the strong leadership of Thomas Sankara. Yet there are concerns about the survival of democracy in the country.
