Captain Traore of Burkina Faso Dissolves Country’s Electoral Body

Burkina Faso’s military government, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has dissolved the country’s independent National Electoral Commission, citing high operational costs and alleged foreign influence. The commission, which oversaw national elections, was subsidized with nearly half a billion CFA francs ($870,000) annually.

The dissolution of the electoral body is seen as a move to consolidate power, potentially delaying the country’s return to democratic governance. The Ministry of Territorial Administration will now oversee election-related matters, further concentrating power in the hands of the executive.

This decision is part of a series of sweeping changes introduced by Traoré’s administration since seizing power in September 2022. Notably, the junta has postponed national elections, extending the transition period to July 2029, which would allow Traoré to stay in power and potentially run for the presidency.

Traoré’s administration has been marked by controversy, including accusations of diverting the country’s gold reserves for personal gain. Despite this, his popularity has grown, with supporters comparing him to legendary African leaders like Thomas Sankara.

In recent developments, Traoré’s government has undergone significant changes, including the dismissal of Prime Minister Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambela and the dissolution of the entire government. These moves underscore Traoré’s efforts to reshape the country’s governance structure.

The future of Burkina Faso’s governance hangs in the balance as Traoré navigates the complexities of leadership, balancing domestic support with international scrutiny.