Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traoré Alive, Debunks Viral Death Rumours

Claims circulating online that Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has died are false. Viral TikTok videos spreading the rumour have been debunked, with no credible evidence to support the claim.

Traoré, who took power in September 2022 after deposing interim president Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, remains alive and continues to lead the country. At 36, he is one of the youngest heads of state globally and is widely regarded as a pan-Africanist, drawing inspiration from Burkina Faso’s revolutionary figure, Thomas Sankara.

His administration has prioritized national self-sufficiency by investing in local industries and asserting control over key resources like gold. Traoré has also sought to reduce French influence, build stronger ties with Russia, and implement anti-corruption measures. These bold moves have gained him admiration across Africa, particularly among young people, despite criticism of authoritarian tendencies and media restrictions.

In recent months, Traoré’s growing popularity has attracted attention from analysts and commentators. This online rumour campaign appears to be an attempt to exploit his fame and mislead the public.

One TikTok video from April 13, 2025, shows Traoré on a medical bed in uniform—possibly donating blood—accompanied by people in military and medical gear. While one caption reads “Quick recovery,” another falsely suggests his death with the phrase “Rest in peace.” The misleading video has garnered more than 3,500 views.

Another video posted in April carries a similar death claim and has drawn nearly 5,000 reactions and over 400 comments.

Despite these claims, there is no official confirmation of Traoré’s death, and all available information indicates he is alive. The viral posts are baseless and should be treated as disinformation.