Burkina Faso’s military ruler, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, has told the nation that democracy “kills” and that people should “forget” about it, in an interview broadcast on state television.
Traoré, who took power in a coup three years ago, claimed that most Africans do not want democracy and suggested that Burkina Faso has its own unique way of running the country—though he did not give details.
Originally, Traoré promised to restore democratic rule by July 2024.
But two months before that deadline, his government extended military rule for another five years.
In January, all political parties were banned as part of a plan to “rebuild the state.
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“People need to forget about the issue of democracy.
Democracy is not for us,” Traoré said.
He pointed to Libya as a warning, “Look at Libya, this is an example close to us,” he said, referring to the North African country once ruled by Colonel Muammar Gaddafi.
Gaddafi’s regime lasted four decades, offering free healthcare, education, and housing, but was also brutal.
After his death in a rebellion backed by Western forces, Libya has struggled with division and conflict, lacking stable elections.
“Wherever they [Western powers] try to establish democracy in the world, it’s always accompanied by bloodshed,” Traoré added.
He also criticized political parties, saying they are “divisive, dangerous, and incompatible with the revolutionary project.
” According to Traoré, many African politicians are dishonest and self-serving.
The junta leader did not outline a clear alternative system.
Instead, he said, “We have our own approach.
We’re not even trying to copy anyone else.
We’re here to completely change the way things are done.
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While several African countries have seen military takeovers in recent years, most still hold elections, even if critics question their fairness.
Leaders in Gabon and Guinea, for example, have organized elections that they went on to win.
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