Burkina Faso’s military leader, Ibrahim Traoré, has suggested that the country should move away from democracy, indicating that military rule could continue for several more years.
Traoré seized power in a coup in September 2022, ousting a previous military government that had itself taken control just nine months earlier.
Since taking office, he has strengthened his grip on power by restricting opposition activities and banning political parties in January.
Although he originally pledged to return the country to civilian rule, planned elections were later delayed due to security concerns linked to ongoing Islamist insurgencies.
Last year, the ruling junta extended the transition period, allowing Traoré to remain in power until 2029.
His recent comments suggest Burkina Faso is drifting further from its earlier promise to restore democratic governance.