23/04/2025
General Michael Langley: The Black Four-Star General Who Called Out Ibrahim Traoré Over Resource Use
General Michael E. Langley made history on August 6, 2022, when he became the first Black four-star general in the history of the United States Marine Corps. His rise through the ranks has been one of excellence, leadership, and groundbreaking achievement—commanding respect not just within the U.S. military, but globally.
Before reaching this historic milestone, General Langley served in some of the most strategic military commands. From November 2021 to August 2022, he was the Commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command, Marine Corps Forces Northern Command, and Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic. Prior to that, he held the position of Deputy Commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic, and also led the U.S. Marine Forces Europe and Africa.
But Langley is not just known for his military credentials. Recently, he made headlines by openly criticizing Burkina Faso’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. Langley accused Traoré of diverting national resources for personal protection and security, raising questions about governance and transparency under the young African leader.
Langley's bold stance has sparked conversations around leadership accountability, sovereignty, and foreign interests in Africa. His words carry weight—not just because of his position, but because they tap into a broader narrative about Africa's wealth, its leaders, and the choices they make on behalf of their people.
Whether one agrees with his remarks or not, one thing is clear: General Michael Langley has placed himself at the center of a critical geopolitical conversation that touches on Africa’s future, its leadership, and the role of global military powers.
GREAT AFRICA ✍🏾