In brief
Capt. Ibrahim Traoré, who took power during a coup, has declared that democracy threatens the lives of the citizens of Burkina Faso and proposed that the nation should forget democratic principles. He cites examples from Libya to support his stance, arguing that Western influence often leads to violence and instability. His military government has previously pledged to restore democratic rule but has also extended its military governance amidst increasing dissent against political parties. The military leader emphasizes the need for a new system based on sovereignty and traditional leadership roles.
Democracy kills and the people of Burkina Faso must forget it, the country's military ruler has said in an interview aired on state television.
Capt Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power in a coup three years ago, suggested most Africans do not want the system of democracy and that Burkina Faso had its own, alternative approach, without giving details.
Initially, Traoré pledged to restore democratic rule by July 2024, but the junta announced it would extend its rule for another five years just months before this deadline.
In January, the authorities announced a ban on all political parties as part of a plan to rebuild the state. In the interview, Traoré said: People need to forget about the issue of democracy. Democracy is not for us. He cited Libya as a cautionary tale, noting the chaos that followed its authoritarian regime's fall.
Libya, ruled by Muammar Gaddafi for decades, exemplified what Traoré described as the fallout from external intervention, leading to ongoing violence. He emphasized that wherever Western powers push for democracy, it is often accompanied by bloodshed.
Traoré's comments reflect a broader trend where some African leaders like him are increasingly turning away from traditional democratic governance towards military rule or alternative governance models, citing disappointment with democracy's effectiveness.
Despite the rhetoric against political parties, Traoré has gained a considerable following for his pan-African vision and criticism of Western influence. His government has altered previous alliances, particularly moving away from cooperation with Western nations like France in addressing regional insecurity and associated insurgencies.
Yet, this shift has not significantly reduced violence; recent reports indicate that significant civilian casualties have ensued since Traoré's government took power, raising concerns about human rights under his rule.
