Former Ghanaian legislator and journalist Ras Mubarak has lauded the political shift taking place in Burkina Faso, describing it as a transformative moment rather than an act of rebellion. Speaking at Ibn Haldun University in Istanbul during African Union Day celebrations, Mubarak portrayed the developments in the Sahel region as signs of a broader continental awakening. He praised Burkina Faso’s young military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, as a symbol of resistance against decades of ineffective post-independence governance, which he argued has only produced superficial democratic processes and fostered elite dominance. While acknowledging that Traoré is unelected, Mubarak emphasized that his leadership confronts longstanding governance failures and seeks to restore dignity and genuine sovereignty to his people. He rejected the notion that hosting foreign troops or relying on lopsided economic partnerships could bring true development, insisting that African nations like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are now asserting their independence by severing ties with exploitative systems.
Mubarak’s address came amid widespread dissatisfaction among Africa’s youth, many of whom are questioning whether traditional democratic models have genuinely served their needs. He argued that Africa’s renewal must stem from indigenous leadership rooted in the people’s aspirations, not from external endorsement. According to him, democracy must evolve to serve the continent more effectively—offering political and economic independence rather than simply adhering to the ritual of periodic elections. He criticized African leaders for being overly dependent on foreign powers and institutions, highlighting the prolonged failure of regional projects like ECOWAS’s single currency as a symptom of leadership that prioritizes foreign interests over local needs. Mubarak urged African youth, especially those studying abroad, to challenge outdated systems and take active roles in reshaping Africa’s future. “You are not the leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders of now,” he declared, emphasizing the urgency for action and the need for transformative leadership across the continent.
In addition to advocating for internal reform and leadership, Mubarak called for stronger alliances with countries in the Global South, such as China, Russia, and Brazil. He argued that these nations are more likely to engage with Africa on equitable terms compared to Western powers whose involvement often comes with strings attached. He also criticized outdated colonial-era trade routes and visa systems that continue to hinder intra-African cooperation, calling it unacceptable that goods must pass through Europe to move between neighboring African countries. Mubarak concluded his speech with a firm stance on international solidarity, particularly expressing support for the Palestinian cause. Drawing on Africa’s own history of colonization and resistance, he described Israel’s actions as oppressive and called for African nations to stand with Palestine. Overall, Ras Mubarak’s message was a passionate call for African unity, self-reliance, and courageous leadership aimed at liberating the continent from the remnants of colonialism and building a future defined by dignity, independence, and hope.
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