In a remarkable show of loyalty and grassroots patriotism, citizens of Burkina Faso are voluntarily standing night watch to protect their leader, President Ibrahim Traore.
According to reports from TVC News on Monday, May 12, a trending video circulating on social media reveals how civilians many of whom are wealthy merchants and professionals gather at roundabouts and key locations each night to ensure the safety of the president.
This self-organized civilian group calls themselves the “WAMS,” a term derived from their local language meaning “come out.” They live ordinary lives by day managing businesses, working in offices, and engaging in daily routines but once night falls, they assemble in designated areas to keep vigil. Their mission is simple but profound: to detect and deter any potential threats to President Traoré and his government.
“If anything suspicious happens, they immediately sound the alarm,” one participant explains in the video. “It’s about the love we have for our country,” another adds, emphasizing that their commitment stems not only from admiration for President Traoré but from a deep-seated desire to protect their nation’s sovereignty.
This initiative reportedly began shortly after Ibrahim Traoré assumed leadership. Over time, the WAMS have evolved into an informal but effective security network. They monitor movements by land, air, and water, and are credited with helping to thwart multiple coup attempts. Their alert systems have become so reliable that they often pass on real-time intelligence to security officials and even the president’s convoy.
One observer in the video remarks on the symbolic impact of their nightly presence: “Imagine the president driving past and seeing hundreds of citizens standing watch that’s powerful motivation. It sends a clear message that the people are with him.”
On social media, the movement has sparked both admiration and skepticism. A user named Emmanuel Thompson tweeted, “If this isn’t patriotism, then I don’t know what is. Long live Africa and its loyal leaders.” However, another user, Albert, offered a more critical perspective, warning, “Let them know this is not sustainable. If an external force like the United States decides to act, there’s little they can do. They should go home and sleep.
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