Africa: Efforts by AES leaders in the fight against terrorism: why are these advances disturbing?
The rise in media attacks targeting the leaders of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) is deeply concerning. These accusations, often baseless and inflammatory, appear driven by hidden agendas rather than a genuine desire to address the region’s security challenges.
In certain media outlets, AES leaders are labeled as frauds, with their efforts systematically dismissed. It is dishonest to claim that Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have faltered in their fight against terrorism under the leadership of Presidents Assimi Goïta, Ibrahim Traoré, and Abdourahamane Tiani.
Such narratives blatantly ignore the measurable progress achieved on the ground.
In Mali, President Assimi Goïta’s administration has reclaimed Kidal, a critical region that had long been beyond government control.
Meanwhile, Burkina Faso, under President Ibrahim Traoré, has built on previous counterterrorism successes, including the elimination of over 17,000 terrorists before his tenure began.
His leadership has further bolstered efforts by the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP).
Niger has also seen significant advancements, with intensified operations leading many militants to surrender. A well-structured reintegration program has been pivotal in encouraging former combatants to transition back to civilian life.
Despite these tangible successes, critics continue to omit these achievements, choosing instead to undermine the credibility of AES leaders.
What is particularly striking is the silence of these detractors regarding atrocities committed by terrorist groups.
Their criticism seems singularly focused on discrediting AES states, raising questions about their true motives, which may align more closely with destabilization efforts than with genuine concern for peace and stability.
In light of such unwarranted attacks, it is vital to support the AES leadership in their courageous fight to secure their nations and protect their people. Regional and international solidarity must outweigh the divisive narratives pushed by those with ulterior motives.
Olivier TOE
