The virtue of governments is made in a democracy—Prof Abotsi speaks on Traore’s presence

The attendance of Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, at President John Dramani Mahama’s inauguration on January 7, 2025, has sparked discussions about its implications for governance and democracy in West Africa.

During a recent panel discussion on JoyNews’ Newsfile, Prof. Kofi Abotsi, Dean of the UPSA Law School, shared his insights on the matter, suggesting that this development could signify a pivotal shift for Traoré and Burkina Faso.

Prof. Abotsi noted that Traoré’s presence at the inauguration, a symbolic celebration of democracy, might hint at the military leader’s readiness to engage with democratic ideals.

“I guarantee you, if Traoré decides that he’s going to go civilian, it’s perhaps because he stood on the platform that advocated one thing — that the virtue of governments is made in a democracy,” he said.

The comments come at a time when Burkina Faso, under Captain Traoré, has been navigating the complex balance between military rule and calls for a democratic transition.

While some critics view his leadership as a setback for democracy, others interpret his actions—like attending the inauguration of a democratically elected leader—as a gesture toward embracing civilian governance.

Prof. Abotsi also stressed the importance of inclusion in fostering democratic change. “You don’t change people from the outside. You get them involved,” he explained, emphasizing the need for leaders like Traoré to engage with democratic systems rather than be isolated from them.

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