In a bold move aimed at tightening control over the electoral process, Burkina Faso's military junta has disbanded the national electoral commission, a decision described as a necessary cost-saving measure. The latest action follows a series of reforms since the coup led by Capt Ibrahim Traoré in September 2022. The military government has pushed the transition to democratic elections to July 2029, leaving Traoré in power and poised to run for the presidency in the next elections.
Burkina Faso Military Junta Dismantles Electoral Commission, Centralizes Election Authority
Burkina Faso Military Junta Dismantles Electoral Commission, Centralizes Election Authority
Burkina Faso's military leaders take drastic steps to consolidate power by abolishing the electoral commission and placing election authority under the interior ministry.
The Teritorial Administration Minister, Emile Zerbo, stated that the electoral commission's annual budget of around $870,000 was deemed unnecessary and that abolishing it would enhance the country's sovereign control over elections while minimizing foreign political influence. This decision comes amid ongoing violence from jihadist groups and rising discontent regarding the junta's approach to governance, which has included the rejection of assistance from France in favor of support from Russia.
Rights organizations have raised alarms over human rights violations attributed to military operations targeting civilians and restricting political participation. Despite the junta's promises, recent data indicates that the security situation in Burkina Faso may be deteriorating, with a marked increase in jihadist attacks in recent months. This backdrop of rising violence and political uncertainty poses critical challenges for the country's future.
As the junta consolidates power, the implications for civil society, political freedoms, and future electoral processes remain to be seen in the troubled West African nation.
Rights organizations have raised alarms over human rights violations attributed to military operations targeting civilians and restricting political participation. Despite the junta's promises, recent data indicates that the security situation in Burkina Faso may be deteriorating, with a marked increase in jihadist attacks in recent months. This backdrop of rising violence and political uncertainty poses critical challenges for the country's future.
As the junta consolidates power, the implications for civil society, political freedoms, and future electoral processes remain to be seen in the troubled West African nation.
