Ibrahim Traoré, the military ruler of Burkina Faso who seized power in a September 2022 coup, has urged citizens to “forget about democracy,” describing the system as unsuitable for the country.
Traoré made the remarks during a roundtable with journalists, which was broadcast on state television, in comments that suggest his administration may not be in a hurry to return to civilian rule.
Responding to questions about the planned transition and elections, the military leader said his government is prioritising other national concerns over democratic processes.
“People need to forget about the issue of democracy. We have to tell the truth. Democracy isn’t for us,” he said, adding that attempts to impose democracy in other countries have had negative consequences.
He cited developments in Libya as an example, arguing that external efforts to enforce democratic systems led to instability.
Traoré’s latest comments appear to signal a shift away from earlier commitments by the junta to organise elections in 2024 following the coup that brought him to power.
Since assuming office, the military government has tightened its grip on the political space, dissolving all political parties after initially suspending their activities.
Prior to the takeover, Burkina Faso had more than 100 registered political parties, with at least 15 represented in parliament after the 2020 general elections.
The developments have raised concerns about the future of democratic governance in the country as the junta consolidates control.
