By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a decisive move against corruption, President Ibrahim Traore has announced that any government official found guilty of embezzling even as little as $1 will have his or her assets seized by the State Treasury and face at least two years’ imprisonment with hard labour. This firm stance follows the revelation that over $15 billion was embezzled by government officials in 2024.
President Traore, who has made fighting corruption, a central focus of his administration, stated that the investigation into the massive theft has uncovered widespread financial misconduct across various sectors, vowing that every penny of the stolen funds would be recovered, and all those involved in the corruption schemes would be held fully accountable.
“There is absolutely no reason why anyone should steal billions from the people of this country while so many citizens suffer from unemployment and poverty,” President Traore remarked in a public address. “We cannot allow this to continue. Every single individual who has betrayed the trust of the Burkinabe people will face justice.”
The President’s comments came after a thorough investigation conducted by Burkina Faso’s anti-corruption task force, which revealed that the scale of embezzlement during 2024 had reached unprecedented levels. The illicit funds were reportedly siphoned off from national budgets, development projects, and foreign aid allocated to the country.
Traore’s government has been focused on recovering these stolen assets and ensuring that all perpetrators, regardless of their position or status, are prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
As part of his crackdown, the President has ordered a comprehensive audit of all government accounts, with an emphasis on transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. “We will not stop until every last stolen franc is recovered,” Traore declared. “Those who have stolen from the people must face the consequences of their actions. Our country’s future depends on the integrity and honesty of our leaders, and we will not allow corruption to undermine the potential of Burkina Faso.”
Under the new directive, any public official caught embezzling will be required to return all stolen funds, and their property seized by the state. They will also face at least two years of imprisonment with hard labour as part of the government’s commitment to creating a deterrent to future corrupt practices.
The sweeping reforms come as part of President Traore’s broader agenda to restore integrity to Burkina Faso’s public institutions and promote economic stability. His administration has made it clear that the fight against corruption is not just a priority, but a necessity for the country’s long-term prosperity.
“We are in a fight for the future of Burkina Faso,” President Traore said. “Our goal is to create a government that works for the people, where public servants serve with honesty and dedication. Corruption will no longer be tolerated.”
The President’s bold stance has garnered widespread support from citizens who have long been frustrated by the rampant corruption in the country. Many have expressed hope that Traore’s efforts will bring about meaningful change and pave the way for greater economic opportunities and development.
As the investigation continues, Burkina Faso’s government is promising more reforms aimed at strengthening anti-corruption measures and ensuring that all stolen assets are recovered.
President Traore’s resolve to tackle corruption head-on signals a new era for the West African country, one where accountability and transparency will take precedence over greed and exploitation.
