Title: Burkina Faso: Security trumps elections according to Captain Ibrahim Traoré
Introduction :
In Burkina Faso, the security situation remains worrying. Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who came to power following a coup d’état, has just stated that security was a priority over holding elections. In a context marked by jihadist violence, he believes that the stability of the country takes precedence over any other issue. Furthermore, he also announces a partial modification of the Constitution, denouncing a text which only represents a minority to the detriment of the Burkinabè people. Here is a more detailed look at the situation in Burkina Faso.
Security before the elections:
According to Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the elections are not a priority while the security situation remains precarious. Faced with the jihadist violence that has affected the country for several years, he believes that stability and protection of the population are the major issues to be addressed. The elections, although theoretically scheduled for 2024, can only be held when security is guaranteed throughout the territory. He insists that all Burkinabè must have the opportunity to choose their president, and not only those in large cities spared by the attacks.
A partial modification of the Constitution:
Captain Ibrahim Traoré also questions the Constitution in place, which he considers unrepresentative of the will of the Burkinabè people. According to him, this text reflects the opinion of a minority of enlightened people, not taking into account the aspirations of the popular masses. He therefore announces a partial modification of the Constitution, in order to allow the peaceful development of the country. This decision is supported by several thousand demonstrators, who call for the adoption of a new constitution.
A nation at war:
Burkina Faso faces a war situation, with recurring jihadist violence which has already caused the death of more than 17,000 people and displaced more than two million individuals. Captain Ibrahim Traoré underlines the importance of this reality and insists on the fact that the country is at war. It relies on collaboration between the army and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Fatherland (VDP), civilian auxiliaries who provide support in the fight against jihadists. However, he deplores the lack of support from certain international actors to strengthen the army’s equipment.
The new diplomatic situation:
Since the departure of French soldiers in February, Burkina Faso has been looking for new partners and alliances to deal with the security situation. The country moved closer to Russia and created the Alliance of Sahel States with Mali and Niger, two countries also ruled by military regimes. In this context, Captain Ibrahim Traoré claims to support the Niger army, threatened with armed intervention by countries in the region. He also emphasizes that the policies of Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso may differ, but that there is no problem with the Ivorian people.
Conclusion :
Security remains the top priority in Burkina Faso, as captain Ibrahim Traoré says. The holding of elections is now relegated to the background, as long as the security situation in the country has not stabilized. Furthermore, a partial modification of the Constitution is envisaged to give a voice to the Burkinabè people. In this context of war against jihadists, Burkina Faso is seeking new allies and strengthening its diplomacy to face the challenges that arise. The road to security and stability promises to be long, but Captain Ibrahim Traoré is determined to lead this fight for the well-being of his country.