28 mars 2024

Burkina Faso: Prime Minister hints at postponement of elections

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Burkina Faso's prime minister on Tuesday ruled out any negotiations with the jihadist insurgents who control large swathes of the country, while hinting that security problems could hamper the organization of elections and thus a return to civilian rule.

"There can be no elections without security. Those who want elections quickly, tomorrow we can organize them, if they ensure the security of Burkina Faso. Even tomorrow, we can be ready. So for us, it's not a problem. If you have a magic wand that can provide us with security as quickly as possible, we'll organize the elections, that's all," said Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem from Tambela.

His comments to lawmakers came as authorities reported the deaths of around 40 people in weekend attacks attributed to Islamist fighters.

In his speech on the "state of the nation", Mr. Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambela also spoke of the need for a new constitution, arguing that the rebuilding of Burkinabe society begins by providing the country with "a constitution that reflects the aspirations of the population".

Once the nation has been rebuilt, the Prime Minister intends to turn his attention to national reconciliation. Apparently, a ministerial committee is already working on funding compensation for victims of political violence.

Burkina Faso has been governed since 2022 by a junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who had promised a return to democracy with presidential elections by July 2024.