The government of Burkina Faso has pushed back forcefully against recent remarks by U.S. General Michael Langley, describing his comments as “regrettable” and “gravely inaccurate.”
In a strongly worded communiqué released on April 16, the Burkinabè authorities accused the top U.S. military official of making baseless claims that distort the country’s realities and undermine the integrity of its leadership.
The response comes in reaction to General Langley’s statements during a U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee hearing held on April 3, 2025, where he presented the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM)’s posture statement for the year.
While responding to Senator Roger Wicker’s question on corruption and Chinese influence in Africa, the AFRICOM Commander suggested that Burkina Faso’s gold revenues were being diverted to prop up the current military regime rather than serving the needs of the people.
“Absolutely, Chairman. I see this, and I don’t mind calling it out,” Langley said. “Captain [Ibrahim] Traoré in Burkina Faso… their gold reserves are just in exchange to protect the junta regime.”
That assertion did not sit well with officials in Ouagadougou.
In its rebuttal, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso voiced its outrage, labeling the U.S. general’s statement as “unfounded allegations.”
The Ministry argued that such sweeping accusations lack evidence and ignore the ongoing political and economic reforms initiated under the leadership of Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
“These statements not only distort the country’s reality but also undermine the credibility of its leadership,” the government’s statement read.
The Burkinabè authorities further condemned General Langley for failing to recognize the nation’s shift toward a more sovereign policy direction—one that prioritizes transparency, the equitable distribution of resources, and grassroots development.
Reaffirming its commitment to reform, the government stated that it remains focused on fighting corruption and ensuring that national resources, including mineral wealth, are used responsibly and for the benefit of the Burkinabè population.
