Recent developments in Ghana during the inauguration of President John Mahama have raised more questions than answers about the current state of affairs on the African continent.
Critics, analysts, communication practitioners, and political commentators have described it as a bold move to allow a military leader to witness the swearing-in of a democratically elected president in Africa.
Ibrahim Traoré’s attendance at the event not only raised eyebrows but also sparked significant discussion among all the leaders and observers across the globe, on whether the continent has embraced military Junta.
The African, one of the leading platforms documenting African affairs, highlighted the warm reception President Traoré received, marked by cheers from the crowd, as admiration for his rational policies, demonstrating his popularity even beyond his home country, Burkina Faso.
Such reception indicates that the African populace, especially the youth, are increasingly focused on service delivery rather than the nature of their leaders’ rise to power. Their primary concerns now centre on governance that prioritises their interests, ensures stability, and delivers tangible results, regardless of the political system in place.
President Traoré’s reception at the event also signals a new era of unity across the continent, where leaders strive to transcend borders, promote collaboration, and facilitate cross-border business and cooperation.
According to the African Voices Traoré has embarked on a transformative journey in Burkina Faso, prioritising radical changes for his country and his people.
His anti-corruption efforts have led to significant milestones, such as the arrest of Vincent Dabilgou, a former transport minister, and others, who received 11-year prison sentences for embezzlement and money laundering.
In addition, Traoré implemented reforms like reducing ministers’ salaries by 30 per cent while increasing workers’ wages by 50 per cent, reducing the wage bill and further enhancing his developmental and economic reforms while building reputation among citizens.
These transformative initiatives are examples of the type of leadership democratic governments across the continent should emulate to improve livelihoods and drive economic growth in their respective countries.
This economic transformation is what was echoed by the Ghanaian public, whose enthusiastic cheers for Traoré when he greeted President Mahama underscored their admiration for his policies and initiatives geared towards economic transformations.
Reports suggest that despite Burkina Faso being under military rule, Traoré has significantly reduced the country’s reliance on foreign powers, notably exiting the
France-aligned pact, which according to him was impoverishing the citizens and plundering the economy. However, concerns remain about his alignment with
Russia, evidenced by his meeting with Vladimir Putin last year.
These developments reflect a broader shift in priorities among Africa’s youth, who are increasingly focused on service delivery rather than the nature of political leadership.
It is, therefore, vital for democratically elected leaders to align their policies with the needs and aspirations of their people including the youth who form the majority of the continent’s population. Governments must adopt people-centered, innovative approaches to governance that prioritise economic development, inclusivity, and the delivery of essential services.
