The military junta led by Captain Ibrahim Traore in Burkina Faso has announced plans to dissolve all political parties, citing their role in fueling divisions among citizens and weakening the social fabric.
The move comes after Traore seized power in a September 2022 coup, ousting another junta leader, Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba.
Since taking power, Traore has sharply muzzled dissenting voices, suspending political party activities and banning public gatherings. The presidency stated that the proliferation of parties has led to abuses and weakened national unity.
A draft law dissolving parties will be sent to the Transitional Legislative Assembly, and assets of dissolved parties will be transferred to the state.
The decision aims to preserve national unity, strengthen government coherence, and pave the way for reforming political governance.
Traore’s coup followed widespread discontent with Damiba’s handling of jihadist violence and economic challenges. Damiba, now in exile, has been accused by Burkina’s military rulers of plotting coups and assassinations.
