Burkina Faso's Traoré: Decolonization or Dictatorship?

Burkina Faso's Young Leader: Decolonization or Dictatorship? Burkina Faso is making headlines with the actions of its young leader, Ibrahim Traoré. Since taking power in 2022, Traoré has taken a strong stance against what he calls neocolonialism, ordering the departure of French troops, banning colonial-style judicial wigs, and pursuing greater local control of infrastructure and resources. His supporters view him as a champion of African independence, while critics label him a dictator due to his methods, including postponed elections and a media crackdown. The situation is reminiscent of the 1980s, when Thomas Sankara led Burkina Faso with a similar vision before his assassination. Traoré's actions have sparked a debate: is he a revolutionary leader, or is he simply another dictator? The future of Burkina Faso remains uncertain.