Palgrave Danquah Expresses Concerns Over Ibrahim Traoré’s Sidearm at President Mahama’s Inauguration.

 

Palgrave Danquah, during a recent interview on Metro TV Ghana, raised concerns about Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, and his decision to carry a sidearm during the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama. The event, which took place just a few days ago, gathered several African leaders, dignitaries, and members of the diplomatic corps.

Ibrahim Traoré’s Sidearm Sparks Mixed Reactions

According to Danquah, while it is not unusual for a leader of Traoré’s stature to have personal security, the presence of his visible sidearm during the ceremony raised eyebrows. He noted that some leaders seated near Traoré appeared uncomfortable with the situation.

‘I have a lot to say about Ibrahim Traoré, who is the military leader for the people of Burkina Faso. His life has been under threat many times and everywhere he has gone. I feel that his sidearm at President John Dramani Mahama’s inauguration some couple of days ago could have been managed a little bit much better because he had his own security detail. It’s not a problem for him to have carried his sidearm into the country, but it’s a problem for him to have held onto his sidearm, especially among the diplomatic corps,’” Palgrave Danquah stated.

Danquah highlighted that the visible presence of the weapon could have been avoided, particularly given the heightened concerns over regional security threats from neighboring countries like Niger, Mali, and Ivory Coast. He added that Traoré’s security detail could have managed the situation better by ensuring the sidearm was left with his bodyguards before ascending to the main stage of the event.

“I saw how some leaders who were seated next to him felt a bit uncomfortable during that regime,” Danquah added.

He further noted that the atmosphere eventually eased once Traoré left the stage, as the focus shifted back to the inauguration and the proceedings led by President Mahama and other dignitaries.

The video of the interview, shared on Metro TV Ghana’s official Instagram page on Saturday, January 11, 2025, has stirred massive reactions from Ghanaians and other social media users. While some supported Danquah’s stance, arguing that diplomatic events require a certain level of decorum and protocol, others defended Traoré, citing the unique security risks he faces as a military leader in a volatile region.

One social media user commented: “Traoré is a symbol of resilience for his people. He has every reason to ensure his safety, especially with the threats he faces daily.”

Another user added: “While I understand his concerns for safety, carrying a visible weapon at such a high-profile event was unnecessary. It could have been better managed.”

Ibrahim Traoré has been a controversial figure in West Africa, with his leadership emerging during a time of significant political and security challenges in Burkina Faso and the Sahel region. His appearance at international events often draws attention due to his military background and the circumstances under which he rose to power.

As discussions surrounding the incident continue, it underscores the delicate balance between personal security and diplomatic protocol in high-profile gatherings. The concerns raised by Palgrave Danquah have opened up a broader conversation about regional security, leadership, and the expectations placed on influential figures like Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

Observers will be keen to see how such situations are managed in future diplomatic events, particularly as West African nations navigate complex political and security dynamics.