The growing anti-French sentiment in Burkina Faso was on full display on Friday as hundreds of people took to the streets of the capital, Ouagadougou, to demonstrate against France. The protesters chanted anti-France slogans and called for the French army to leave the country.
The tensions between Burkina Faso and France stem from the two military coups that occurred last year, as well as the failure of the authorities to protect civilians from jihadist activity in the north. These events, coupled with the perception that the French military presence in Burkina Faso has not improved security, have led to increased anti-France sentiments.
The demonstration was largely peaceful and ended without incident. However, the Burkina Faso military government has also requested the replacement of France’s ambassador. This is indicative of the growing animosity between the two countries.
France has around 400 special forces in Burkina Faso to help local forces combat the Islamist insurgency that has been ravaging the Sahel region, particularly Mali, for the past decade. This insurgency has resulted in thousands of deaths and over 2 million people being displaced. It is understandable why the people of Burkina Faso would be angry with France’s military presence in their country, as they feel it has not improved security.
The demonstration in Ouagadougou highlights the growing anti-France sentiment that is prevalent in Burkina Faso. It is a reminder of the delicate state of affairs between the two countries, and the need for France to take steps to address the concerns of the people of Burkina Faso. If these steps are not taken, the situation could further deteriorate, leading to more unrest and violence.