Born in 1949, he grew up witnessing leaders from various African countries agitating for independence from their colonial masters.
At age 19, Thomas embraced a new adventure, the military. Whilst serving as an officer, he gained recognition and admiration for his exceptional achievements on battlefield. He was also conscious of the political activities in Burkina Faso thereby taking interest in the affairs of the ordinary citizen.
Devastated by the heightened corruption, lack of basic social amenities, injustice and opulence of the ruling class, Thomas Sankara risked his life to liberate the people of Burkina Faso.
At the age 33, Thomas Sankara became president after toppling the government of the day. Many questioned his ability to deliver at 33.
In the next four years as leader of Burkina Faso, he fought corruption rigorously by adopting a very humble lifestyle different from many African leaders. He increased school enrollment at astronomical levels and dared the gods of his land by ensuring women were given equal opportunities like their male counterparts. He rescued his people from the dungeons of ignorance, foreign aid and gave meaning to their existence without class discrimination.
Like many liberators, Thomas did not live to witness the fructification of his efforts. His life was shortened by a man whose 27 years can't compare to a year of Thomas's four years.
As an agitator of total Independence for the African continent, I wish to draw our attention to the legacies of this great Son of ours. In celebrating his life, let us reflect on what he stood for. The best way to honor a man is to continue and achieve what he wished for his people but couldn't complete his mission.
Forever with us.
Source: Adnan Kolibogu Mustapha
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