Gun-wearing leader sparks concern at Ghana inauguration

Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore, stirred controversy at Ghana’s presidential inauguration on Tuesday by wearing a holstered pistol at the event. His decision, seen by some as a breach of security protocol, has raised questions about trust in Ghanaian security and diplomatic norms.

The inauguration marked the swearing-in of Ghana’s new president, John Mahama, who defeated Mahamudu Bawumia in last month’s election. Traore was one of 17 heads of state in attendance, underscoring the importance of the event amidst regional tensions.

Security analyst Vladmir Antwi Danso described Traore’s move as unusual, noting that visiting leaders typically rely on host nations for security. Another expert, Retired Colonel Festus Aboagye, speculated that Traore might have had bilateral permission to carry his weapon. “It’s not necessarily a security breach unless the weapon was used, which is unlikely,” Aboagye stated.

Traore’s attendance was seen as a diplomatic effort to mend relations between Ghana and Burkina Faso. Tensions between the two countries had escalated after Ghana’s former president accused Traore of harboring Russian mercenaries.

Relations are further strained by Burkina Faso’s decision, along with Mali and Niger, to break away from the regional bloc ECOWAS and form the Alliance of Sahel States. Analysts suggest Traore’s actions reflect the alliance’s distrust of ECOWAS, which it accuses of destabilizing its member states.

Despite the controversy, Traore’s presence at the ceremony is viewed as an important step toward improving bilateral relations. Ghana’s support remains critical for Burkina Faso as it struggles with a jihadist insurgency threatening the region.

Observers, however, questioned the optics of a military leader wielding a weapon at a democratic investiture. Regional integration expert Emmanuel Bensah called the display “awkward,” symbolizing the juxtaposition of military power and democratic ideals in West Africa.

As Mahama begins his presidency, addressing security and fostering regional cooperation will be among his key challenges.

Source: BBC