Ouagadougou: Professor Jean Hubert Bazi© has transferred Thomas Sankara’s archives, which include the manuscript of a potentially life-saving speech, to the Ministry of Culture. The speech was intended to be delivered on October 15, 1987, the day Sankara was assassinated.
According to Burkina Information Agency, several key archival documents were presented to Dr. Jean No«l Bonkoungou, technical advisor to the Minister of Culture. Among these documents is the handwritten speech that, if delivered earlier, might have removed any official justification for Sankara’s assassination, as suggested by Professor Bazi©.
The archive also features artifacts and a complete collection of the newspaper L’Intrus, including key rings and issues leading up to the 1987 coup d’©tat. Dr. Bazi© compiled a single document detailing reactions from presidents of the sub-region following the coup, hinting at underlying tensions on the night of August 4.
Professor Bazi© further claims that documents suggest Blaise Compaor©, the former president now in exile, had weapons sent to Ziniar© without clear reasons. He notes that Sankara meticulously documented details regarding the composition of the CNR government, indicating changes and inspirations for its creation, alongside photocopies of Sankara’s personal assessments and political thoughts.
Included in the archives is the Popular Development Plan and the orientation document of the CDR. Dr. Bonkoungou expressed gratitude for the donation, emphasizing its educational value for students and the youth of Burkina Faso to better comprehend the Revolution from 1983 to 1987. He highlighted the importance of historical memory for future planning, viewing these artifacts as inspirational for the nation’s youth.
Professor Bazi© stated that not all documents have been handed over yet, citing the need for proper organization and preparation before the complete transfer to the authorities.