Tensions are rising between Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast following the death of popular Burkinabè influencer Alain Traoré, widely known by his online alias Alino Faso, who died under controversial circumstances while in custody in Abidjan.
Traoré, 32, a prominent social media activist and vocal critic of West African political leadership, was found dead in his prison cell on July 24, 2025. Ivorian authorities have officially ruled the death a suicide. However, this explanation has been met with widespread skepticism, sparking calls for an independent investigation both within Burkina Faso and internationally.
On July 29, hundreds of protesters, many dressed in white to symbolize mourning and justice, flooded the streets of Ouagadougou. The peaceful march began at the Thomas Sankara Memorial and culminated at the Ivorian Embassy, where demonstrators demanded accountability and transparency. Chants of “Justice for Alino” echoed across the capital, as protestors waved banners decrying what they see as a politically motivated death.
Traoré had been in detention since January 2025 on charges of collusion with foreign agents and conspiracy against the Ivorian state—allegations that his supporters and human rights organizations contend were fabricated to silence his dissent. His online presence, marked by incisive commentary and strong pan-Africanist views, had earned him a large following across Francophone West Africa and made him a prominent voice of youth activism.
Burkina Faso’s government has strongly condemned the circumstances surrounding Traoré’s death. In an official statement, the Ministry of Communication labeled the incident as “unacceptable” and called for a transparent, joint investigation to determine the true cause of death. “This will not go unpunished,” the Minister said, assuring the public that Burkina Faso would not rest until justice is served.
Meanwhile, human rights organizations have weighed in, urging both governments to permit an impartial, international inquiry. “In cases like this—where political motives may be at play—it is imperative that investigations are conducted free from state influence,” said a spokesperson for Amnesty International’s West Africa division.
The outcry over Traoré’s death also carries potential diplomatic consequences. Already fragile relations between the two neighboring countries could be further strained if the demands for an independent probe are not addressed. Some protesters have gone so far as to call for the resignation of Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, citing an increasingly repressive climate and a pattern of silencing opposition voices.
As of now, Traoré’s family is still awaiting the repatriation of his body. Grief-stricken and determined, they have joined the growing chorus demanding the full truth about what happened in that Abidjan cell.
With pressure mounting from civil society, activists, and regional leaders, all eyes remain on Abidjan as the call for justice intensifies across West Africa.