Burkina Faso’s military leader, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, has called on citizens to abandon democracy, describing the system as harmful and unsuitable for the country.
In an interview aired on state television, Traoré said: “People need to forget about the issue of democracy. Democracy is not for us.”
The 38-year-old, who seized power in a coup three years ago, argued that many African nations do not favour democratic governance and suggested Burkina Faso was pursuing a different path, though he did not outline specifics.
Traoré had initially promised a return to civilian rule by July 2024. However, just two months before the deadline, the junta extended its rule by another five years.
In January, authorities also imposed a ban on all political parties, describing it as part of efforts to “rebuild the state”.
Referencing Libya, Traoré said: “Look at Libya, this is an example close to us.”
He added: “Wherever they [Western powers] try to establish democracy in the world, it’s always accompanied by bloodshed.”
Libya, once ruled by Colonel Muammar Gaddafi, descended into instability following his overthrow during a Western-backed uprising. The country remains divided between rival administrations and armed groups, with no successful elections held since.
Traoré defended the dissolution of political parties, describing them as divisive and incompatible with his administration’s goals.
“The truth is, politics in Africa – or at least what we’ve experienced in Burkina – is that a real politician is someone who embodies every vice: a liar, a sycophant, a smooth-talker,” he said.
While he did not present a detailed alternative system, Traoré insisted: “We have our own approach. We’re not even trying to copy anyone else. We’re here to completely change the way things are done.”
He said the new direction would prioritise sovereignty, patriotism, and grassroots mobilisation, with traditional leaders playing key roles.
Traoré also stressed the need for economic and military self-reliance, warning that shorter working hours would not enable the country to compete with wealthier nations.
His administration has faced criticism for suppressing dissent, targeting opposition figures, media organisations, and civil society groups. There have also been allegations that critics are sent to front-line positions in the fight against Islamist militants.
Despite these concerns, Traoré has attracted support across parts of Africa for his pan-African stance and criticism of Western influence.
Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, has distanced itself from Western allies, particularly France, in tackling a decade-long Islamist insurgency. The countries have instead strengthened ties with Russia for military support, though violence continues.
A recent report by Human Rights Watch said more than 1,800 civilians have been killed in Burkina Faso since Traoré took power in 2023. The report attributes about two-thirds of the deaths to the military and allied militias, with Islamist militants responsible for the remainder.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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