Burkina Faso Tense After Foiled Coup Plot as Junta Urges Mass Protests Against ‘Western Interference’

Tension remains high in Burkina Faso, one week after the government said it stopped a major coup attempt.

In the capital, Ouagadougou, military presence has increased and distrust is growing within army ranks.

A planned meeting between top officers was abruptly cancelled after many failed to attend.

Observers say the move signals unease and possible fractures in military leadership.

Large crowds were seen gathering at the Mogho Naaba palace, a key traditional authority in the country.

Among them were soldiers and relatives of missing civilians, according to local media reports.

The presence of army personnel added to the growing speculation of unrest.
Residents say the atmosphere in the capital remains tense and unpredictable.

A cabinet meeting was held under heavy security at the presidential palace on 24 April.

Helicopters hovered overhead and sniffer dogs were deployed around the compound.
Military camps across the city were also placed under heightened alert.

At the General Baba Sy camp, armed vehicles were stationed at the entrance.

The government, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, is now calling for mass pro-junta rallies.

The demonstrations are set to take place on 30 April in the capital and beyond.
Supporters are expected to denounce “Western interference” in Burkina Faso’s affairs.

The call comes after a U.S. general accused the regime of misusing gold reserves.

On 22 April, the military revealed it had intercepted communications about the plot.
Officials say a senior officer had been in contact with terrorist groups to stage a coup.

Security Minister Mahamadou Sana said several current and ex-soldiers were involved.

He identified Captain René David Ouédraogo, who remains on the run.

Authorities said the plotters had planned to storm the presidential palace on 16 April.
Their alleged goal was to cause chaos and place the country under outside control.

The coup attempt was reportedly timed to catch the leadership off guard.
Officials believe swift action helped prevent a violent takeover.

Burkina Faso has faced years of attacks from Islamist militants.

Groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State continue to operate across the Sahel.
Following a series of coups, the country has expelled French troops.
It now relies on Russian-backed forces for security and training.

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have formed a new military alliance.

The “Alliance of Sahel States” aims to strengthen regional security efforts.
Despite the shift, violence has increased across all three countries.

Analysts warn civilians are caught between terrorists and armed forces.