Prof. Abotsi highlighted the potential transformative impact of Traoré’s presence at the event.

“I guarantee you, if Traoré decides that he’s going to go civilian, it’s perhaps because he stood on the platform that advocated one thing — that the virtue of governments is made in a democracy,” Prof. Abotsi said on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, January 11.

He stressed the importance of engaging leaders like Traoré on platforms that promote democratic values rather than isolating them.

“You don’t change people from the outside. You get them involved,” he noted, suggesting that inclusion could be a catalyst for positive change in leadership approaches.

Captain Traoré, who seized power in a military coup in Burkina Faso in 2022, has faced criticism for his administration’s departure from democratic norms. His attendance at the inauguration of President Mahama, known for his commitment to democracy, sparked mixed reactions across the region.

Some observers view Traoré’s presence as a signal of Ghana’s leadership in fostering dialogue and reform across West Africa. Others, however, argue that extending such invitations risks legitimizing undemocratic regimes.

She explained that the warm welcome extended to the Burkinabe leader might encourage him to embrace democracy.

“You know, this is also a country with a very delicate history, and there are all sorts of things at play. If there is anybody who can get him to actually rescind his decision to continue as a military leader, Ghana has its own history. If we want to encourage him to return to democracy, I’m sure this could be a great way. You can still go to the polls and lead your country with whatever flair and pageantry you want,” she opined.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday, January 8, she stated that thorough security checks were conducted before the invited guests were allowed into the event’s perimeter.

Her comments followed public concerns about the leader taking the presidential platform while carrying a sidearm.

President Ibrahim Traoré was seen at the presidential inauguration ceremony exchanging pleasantries with the newly elected president while still carrying his sidearm.

Meanwhile, she expressed her frustration at seeing the weapon on the Burkinabe leader during the event, saying, “I also found it a bit awkward when I saw the gun on him.”

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