A horrific massacre in the northern Burkinabe town of Barsalogho on August 24 has ignited widespread condemnation and intensified pressure on the ruling military junta.
The attack, which occurred as residents were forced to dig defensive trenches, is believed to be one of the deadliest single incidents in the country’s history.
Eyewitness accounts and reports from affected families indicate that Islamist militants carried out the brutal assault, leaving scores of civilians dead.
The carnage has been attributed to groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, which have been expanding their influence in the region.
While the military junta has acknowledged the incident and confirmed casualties, it has provided limited details, sparking further outrage.
Religious leaders, including Father Jean Emmanuel Konvolbo, a prominent member of the Catholic community, have vehemently criticized the junta’s response, accusing it of silence and inaction.
The massacre has also prompted a collective outcry from victims’ relatives, who have formed the Justice Collective for Barsalogho (CJB) to demand accountability.
The group has accused authorities of suppressing dissent and intimidation, citing instances of forced disappearances and attempts to silence those speaking out against the tragedy.