By Richlove Kwamina Taylor, CEO of Liquid Force Security Services Limited
The inauguration and investiture of Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, on January 7, 2025, was a momentous occasion celebrated by leaders from across Africa.
Among the distinguished guests was Burkina Faso’s Head of State, Captain Ibrahim Traore whose presence symbolized solidarity and the strengthening of regional ties.
However, one striking element during the event drew public attention: Burkina Faso’s Head of State appeared armed, sparking a broader discussion on diplomatic protocols and the symbolism of such actions in international relations.
Diplomatic Protocols and International Norms
The conduct of visiting dignitaries during state functions is governed by well-established diplomatic norms designed to promote trust, mutual respect, and peaceful collaboration.
Central to these is the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), which provides a framework for interactions between states. While the convention does not explicitly address the visible armament of visiting heads of state, its principles emphasize respect for the host nation’s sovereignty and protocols.
Traditionally, visiting leaders rely on the host country’s security apparatus to ensure their safety during official events.
This practice is not merely procedural but symbolic, signifying trust in the host nation’s capacity to guarantee their security.
A deviation from this practice, such as the visible presence of arms, can be perceived as a departure from standard diplomatic etiquette and could inadvertently send mixed messages.
The Symbolism of Peace in Diplomacy
Diplomatic events like presidential inaugurations are deeply symbolic. They represent transitions of power, national unity, and the peaceful coexistence of nations.
The presence of arms at such events, even as a personal statement, risks overshadowing the event’s core message.
According to United Nations protocol guidelines and African Union diplomatic frameworks, disarmament during diplomatic engagements is a gesture of neutrality and trust. It reinforces the ideals of peace, stability, and cooperation that such gatherings are meant to exemplify.
Contextualizing Burkina Faso’s Action
The political and security realities of Burkina Faso cannot be overlooked. As a nation grappling with terrorism and internal unrest, the president’s military identity is likely central to his leadership style.
The choice to appear armed may reflect a statement of resilience and caution, given the region’s complex security landscape.
However, diplomatic settings like Ghana’s inauguration demand careful adherence to international norms.
While the president’s armed presence may resonate with some as a show of strength, it could also challenge the trust and mutual respect expected at such high-level events.
Speaker of Parliament’s Intervention
In an effort to minimize potential misunderstandings and place the action within an appropriate cultural and historical context,
Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament—an experienced diplomat who understands the nuances of international relations—offered a thoughtful explanation.
He highlighted the meaning of the name Burkina Faso, which translates to “the nation of strong men and women.”
This explanation served as a reminder of the identity and resilience of the Burkinabé people, framing the president’s armed presence as a symbolic representation of strength rather than a challenge to diplomatic norms.
The speaker’s intervention not only demonstrated the importance of skilled diplomacy but also helped preserve the spirit of unity and respect that defined the event.
Implications for Diplomacy
The implications of such actions in diplomatic settings are far-reaching:
The Path Forward
As Africa continues to face security and governance challenges, its leaders must navigate these complexities with a delicate balance of national identity and adherence to international norms.
While Burkina Faso’s president’s decision to appear armed may reflect unique circumstances,
it highlights the need for African leaders to align their actions with the ideals of diplomacy.
By doing so, they reaffirm their commitment to the principles of trust, collaboration, and peaceful coexistence that define modern international relations.
The intervention by Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, demonstrates the power of skilled diplomacy in addressing delicate issues, preserving harmony, and fostering mutual respect among nations.
His explanation of Burkina Faso’s identity as a “nation of strong men and women” reminds us that diplomacy often lies in understanding and bridging cultural contexts.
Diplomacy is not just about negotiations but also about the signals we send. As we reflect on the events of January 7, 2025, let us strive to uphold the standards that inspire confidence, unity, and hope across Africa and the world.
Richlove Kwamina Taylor is the CEO of Liquid Force Security Services Limited, a company dedicated to cybersecurity, security consultancy, and digital forensic investigations.
