Burkina Faso Junta Accuses Opponents of Massacre Amid Rising Violence

Burkina Faso's junta alleges an international conspiracy to overthrow its government, attributing the recent massacre of civilians to Islamist insurgents. Critics argue the junta aims to deflect blame for deteriorating security. The statement accuses foreign-backed opponents but lacks evidence, drawing skepticism from analysts and civil society members.

Burkina Faso's junta has claimed the discovery of an international plot to overthrow it, attributing recent violence, including the massacre of civilians, to Islamist insurgents. The junta's statement has been met with skepticism by critics, who believe it's a ploy to deflect blame for the nation's escalating security issues.

The junta, which seized power in a 2022 coup, had promised to combat jihadist violence but has instead seen an increase in attacks. Critics argue that the junta is struggling with popular discontent due to the worsening security situation. The recent attack in Barsalogho, where hundreds were killed by al Qaeda-affiliated insurgents, has particularly intensified public outrage.

Interim security minister Mahamadou Sana claimed the Barsalogho massacre was part of a broader scheme to create chaos and allow terrorist infiltration of the capital, Ouagadougou. The junta accused Western-backed opponents of orchestrating the plot but did not provide evidence. Civil society sources have largely agreed with the critics, stating the junta's allegations are an attempt to shift responsibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)