In brief
Captain Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso's military ruler, stated that the populace should abandon the notion of democracy, which he claims has led to violence and division. In his address, he criticized the existing political framework and hinted at creating an alternative governance system, while also announcing an extension of military rule for five more years amid a ban on political parties. His comments reflect a broader trend of military-led movements in West Africa steering away from Western influence and promoting self-reliance.
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.
Traoré initially pledged to restore democratic rule to the West African country by July 2024, but two months before this deadline, the junta announced it would extend its rule for another five years.
In January, the authorities announced a ban on all political parties as part of a plan to rebuild the state.
In Thursday night's interview, Traoré said: People need to forget about the issue of democracy. Democracy is not for us.
Look at Libya, this is an example close to us, said the 38-year-old, who casts himself as a revolutionary leader standing up to Western imperialism.
He highlighted that wherever Western powers attempt to establish democracy in the world, it is often accompanied by bloodshed.
Traoré also reflected on his view of political parties, labeling them as divisive and dangerous, calling for a new governance approach guided by traditional leaders and grassroots structures.
Despite these authoritarian measures, Traoré continues to garner support for his anti-Western stance and vision for pan-Africanism, echoing sentiments resonating among citizens disillusioned with traditional political processes.
