President Capt Traoré survived 19 assassination attempts in two years

As of April 2025, President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso has reportedly survived at least 19 assassination attempts since assuming power in September 2022.

These attempts have involved both internal and external actors, including soldiers and activists allegedly receiving financial backing from foreign entities.

One notable incident occurred on September 26, 2023, when Burkina Faso’s intelligence and security services foiled a coup attempt against President Traoré.

Officers and other individuals involved in the attempt to destabilize the country were arrested, and the search for other perpetrators continued.   

Another significant plot was uncovered in January 2024, involving plans to assassinate President Traoré during the Africa Cup of Nations. The conspirators intended to carry out a bombing at the president’s residence in Ouagadougou, with a backup plan involving an attack on a government motorcade.

Burkina Faso’s intelligence services intercepted the plotters’ communications in advance and foiled the assassination attempt.

These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges and threats faced by President Traoré’s administration in maintaining stability and security in Burkina Faso.