Burkina Faso Military Junta Foils Coup Attempt, Blames Exiled Officers in Ivory Coast

Burkina Faso's military-led government has announced the successful prevention of a coup attempt aimed at unseating Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who has ruled the country since seizing power in a 2022 military takeover. Authorities say the coup plot, which was set to unfold between May 11 and 12, was orchestrated by exiled officers currently residing in Ivory Coast.

The junta said in a statement, “Officers and other alleged actors involved in this plot to destabilise the institutions of Burkina Faso have been arrested and others are actively being sought.” The transitional government added that the alleged conspirators were acting in collusion with “Burkinabè officers in exile,” further intensifying already strained relations with Ivory Coast.

Burkina Faso’s military prosecutor announced the opening of an investigation into the attempted power grab, confirming that several suspects were already in custody. Authorities also reaffirmed their intention to “shed all possible light on this plot.”

This is not the first time the Traoré-led regime has faced internal challenges. In September 2023, another alleged coup attempt led to a wave of arrests, with authorities warning of repeated efforts to disrupt the country's fragile transition period.

The government emphasized that “the security services and intelligence units were swift and effective in neutralising this new attempt to destabilise the country,” reiterating their commitment to maintaining order and transparency.

As Burkina Faso grapples with ongoing jihadist violence and political volatility, the junta has urged citizens to remain vigilant and united, promising that justice will be served against all individuals involved in the plot.