The Tactics Institute demands the immediate reversal of Burkina Faso’s military regime’s decision to extend its rule by five years. The Institute calls on the Burkinabe authorities to adhere to their initial transition timeline and prioritize a swift return to civilian governance.
The recent decision by Burkina Faso’s military regime to extend its transition period by 60 months from July 2, 2024, poses a severe threat to the peace and stability of an already volatile region. This extension, announced during national consultations led by Colonel Moussa Diallo, significantly undermines efforts to restore democratic governance in Burkina Faso and the broader West African region. The country has been under military rule since a coup in 2022, and this prolonged transition exacerbates the existing security crisis and further destabilizes the region.
Burkina Faso’s ongoing jihadist insurgency, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced millions since 2015, has been used by the military to justify their extended rule. However, the extension of military governance is likely to intensify the conflict and prolong the suffering of the civilian population. According to the US-based crisis-monitoring group ACLED, more than 8,000 people were killed in Burkina Faso in 2023 alone. Furthermore, the military regime controls only about 40% of the country’s territory, with approximately 10% of the population displaced due to insurgent violence.
The Tactics Institute strongly condemns the military regime’s actions as violations of international fundamental rights and democratic principles. The new charter, which allows coup leader Ibrahim Traoré to run in future elections and eliminates quotas for traditional parties, undermines the democratic process and disregards the rule of law. The establishment of the Korag, a body to monitor and control the implementation of the country’s strategic vision, further consolidates power in the hands of the military and limits political plurality.
The Tactics Institute urges the international community to pressure Burkina Faso’s military regime to comply with these demands and support efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. Immediate action is critical to prevent further escalation and to safeguard the fundamental rights of the Burkinabe people. The Tactics Institute calls on Burkina Faso to immediately halt its actions and commit to a timely and inclusive return to civilian rule.
