ECOWAS needs our collective wisdom, not a shared amnesia, by Owei Lakemfa

Burkina Faso's interim president, Ibrahim Traore, has issued a stern warning against potential rivals within the military-led government, vowing to remove anyone who challenges his authority. Speaking during a meeting with community leaders in Ouahigouya, northern Burkina Faso, Traore emphasized his determination to maintain sole leadership amid growing speculation of internal strife within the ruling junta. Traore, who seized power in a coup in September 2022, addressed concerns about possible power struggles following the prolonged absence of key figures in the military government. His remarks come as two prominent members of the junta, Oumarou Yabre and Farouk Azaria Sorgho, have disappeared from public view, raising questions about their status and influence. Yabre, who serves as head of the intelligence services and National Security Council, has not been seen in public since late May. A security official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Yabre has ceased attending routine duties at the National Intelligence Agency and that his personal security detail has been significantly reduced. He also missed notable events such as the traditional flag-raising ceremony at the presidency and a recent promotion ceremony for senior officers. Meanwhile, Sorgho, the junta's spokesperson and commander of a powerful Rapid Intervention Battalion, has not appeared publicly since mid-May. Security officials suggest that Sorgho has been "abducted" by Traore's allies, while his father, Adama Luc Sorgho, former infrastructure minister, was arrested and later taken into custody by unknown individuals. The situation has led to increased security measures in the capital, Ouagadougou. Local residents reported that roads previously closed for years have been reopened to divert traffic away from the presidential palace, where new security checkpoints have been established. This heightened presence suggests efforts to control access and monitor movements around critical locations. Traore's comments reflect a broader effort to consolidate power and quell rumors of dissent. During his address, he criticized Islamic preacher Ishaq Kindo, who had opposed a proposed law on religious freedoms. Traore accused Kindo of attempting to create an independent Islamic police force in 2019, calling him a threat to national unity. In addition to these developments, two officials associated with Yabre were dismissed from their positions earlier this month, one serving as chief executive officer of the National Hydrocarbons Company and the other acting as a ministerial advisor for youth affairs. Their removal underscores the ongoing power dynamics within the junta and highlights Traore's resolve to eliminate perceived threats. The disappearance of Yabre and Sorgho has sparked speculation among analysts and regional observers about the stability of the current regime. While neither Traore nor his allies have officially commented on the whereabouts of these officials, the abrupt changes in their public appearances and roles indicate a shift in the balance of power within the military government. As the political landscape in Burkina Faso continues to evolve, the actions of Traore and his inner circle will likely shape the future direction of the nation. With security forces increasingly visible and key figures missing from public life, the focus remains on whether Traore's warnings will effectively deter opposition or further destabilize an already fragile situation.