Captain Ibrahim Traore, the transitional president of Burkina Faso, garnered widespread attention on Tuesday after receiving the loudest applause at the inauguration of Ghana’s President John Mahama. Traore’s reception at the event underscored his growing influence in West Africa, as he stood out among the visiting heads of state.
During the ceremony, President Mahama noted the popularity of his counterpart, remarking, “You can see how popular Mr. President (Traore) is in Ghana. He received the loudest cheer.” This acknowledgment highlighted the level of support Traore has cultivated, not just in Burkina Faso but across the region.
The moment came when Ghana’s parliamentary speaker, Alban Bagbin, invited Captain Traore to offer his congratulations as the 16th leader to do so. As he stood to speak, the crowd erupted in cheers, illustrating the level of admiration he commands among the public.
Traore, who was dressed in military fatigues, was accompanied by a group of at least ten soldiers, all in uniform. This display of military presence further underscored the nature of his leadership, given that he took power in a military coup in September 2022, following the removal of his predecessor.
While Traore’s rise to power has been met with controversy, analysts see his reception in Ghana as indicative of his rising popularity in the region. Under his leadership, Burkina Faso has seen significant changes, including the expulsion of French forces, signaling a shift in the country’s foreign relations and efforts to assert greater sovereignty.
The warm reception at the inauguration serves as a testament to his growing political influence and the regional impact of his leadership.