observer.gm - Captain Thomas Isidore NoÎl Sankara (December 21, 1949 – October 15, 1987) was the leader of Burkina Faso (formerly known as Upper Volta) from 1983 to 1987. He came to power in a coup masterminded by Blaise CompaorÈ. Noted for his personal charisma, he was praised for promoting health and women's rights, but also antagonized many vested interests in the country[2]. He was overthrown and assassinated in a coup d'Ètat led by Blaise CompaorÈ on October 15, 1987, sometimes believed to have been at...» view full story