Over the past decade, however, Diendere’s extensive regional connections helped Compaore transform himself from international pariah into regional peacemaker and a key ally in the West’s battle against Islamist militants.
“Army officers, both French and American, liked him (Diendere),” said Depagne. “He was someone very easy to work with and very well informed, not only in Burkina but all over West Africa and especially in the Sahel region.”
French troops trained Compaore’s Presidential Security Regiment (RSP), the 1,200-troop strong elite unit that was a key pillar of his rule and over which Diendere exerts de facto command.
The general was involved in delicate negotiations with al Qaeda-linked groups, appearing in front of television cameras with freed European hostages.
Despite Compaore’s overthrow last October and the RSP’s fraught relationship with the transitional authorities that replaced him, Diendere took part in the U.S. military’s annual ‘Flintlock’ counter-terrorism exercises in Chad in February.
Observers are now trying to understand why the consummate behind-the-scenes player has thrust himself into the spotlight at the helm of a military junta.
While the immediate spark for the putsch appears to be a call this week for the RSP presidential guard to be dismantled, there may be more to it. [USN:nL5N11K452]
“This is going to ensure they have a seat at the table, because right now they don’t,” said the Western officer. “It could be the RSP in survival mode. It could be Compaore behind the scenes trying to manoeuvre.”
Article Appeared @http://www.africanglobe.net/africa/coup-burkina-faso-french-backed-traitors-charge/