Burkina Faso’s transitional government has dismissed former leader Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba and thirteen other officers from the army. The dismissal, formalized by a decree from current President of the Transition, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, was announced publicly on October 30.

The officers are accused of a “particularly serious” offense, allegedly involving intentions that could undermine national defense. Analysts, including Moussa Sawadogo, view this move as part of President Traoré’s strategy to secure his leadership by eliminating potential threats within the military ranks. The dismissals mark a significant shift in the country’s transitional governance as Burkina Faso navigates its political landscape.