AIGS Calls for Democratic Transition in Burkina Faso

The Africa Institute on Governance and Security (AIGS) has commended Captain Ibrahim Traoré, interim President of Burkina Faso, for his bold leadership in addressing the nation’s multifaceted challenges. Since assuming power in September 2022, Traoré has demonstrated a commitment to national sovereignty, economic self-reliance, and social inclusion, igniting hope among the Burkinabé people and inspiring many across the African continent.

According to sources, Traoré’s administration has made significant strides in strengthening the security apparatus, including the establishment of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP). The focus on economic diversification, particularly in agriculture, mining, and renewable energy, has also been notable.

However, the AIGS has expressed concerns about the extension of the transitional period to 2029 and the decision to prioritize security over elections. While understanding the need for decisive action in times of crisis, the institute firmly believes that sustainable stability and prosperity can only be achieved through inclusive, transparent, and democratic governance.

In a statement released on April 24, 2025, the AIGS urged Captain Traoré to reaffirm his commitment to restoring constitutional and democratic rule. The institute proposed six actionable steps to support Burkina Faso’s return to democratic governance, including:

1. Establishing a clear and inclusive transition roadmap

2. Strengthening independent institutions

3. Prioritizing constitutional reform

4. Enhancing civic education and participation

5. Collaborating with regional and international partners

6. Balancing security and democratic priorities

The AIGS acknowledged the complexity of Burkina Faso’s challenges but emphasized that true stability and progress depend on transitioning from military rule to a democratic system that reflects the will of the Burkinabé people.

Full Statement from the Africa Institute on Governance and Security

Statement from the Africa Institute on Governance and Security in Support of Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s Efforts in Burkina Faso and a Call for a Return to Democratic Rule

The Africa Institute on Governance and Security (AIGS) commends Captain Ibrahim Traoré, interim President of Burkina Faso, for his bold and resolute leadership in addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the nation since assuming power in September 2022. At a time when Burkina Faso grapples with escalating security threats, economic hardship, and humanitarian crises, Captain Traoré’s commitment to national sovereignty, economic self-reliance, and social inclusion has ignited hope among Burkinabé and inspired many across the African continent. His pragmatic approach to governance, including efforts to combat jihadist insurgency, renegotiate exploitative foreign economic contracts, and prioritize the needs of the Burkinabé people, reflects a dedication to transformative leadership that resonates with the aspirations of a new generation of Africans.

We applaud Captain Traoré’s initiatives to strengthen Burkina Faso’s security apparatus through local recruitment, training, and the establishment of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), which have aimed to restore territorial integrity in the face of relentless extremist violence. His administration’s focus on economic diversification, particularly in agriculture, mining, and renewable energy, alongside the construction of the country’s first gold refinery, demonstrates a forward-thinking vision to harness Burkina Faso’s resources for the benefit of its citizens. Furthermore, Traoré’s emphasis on social inclusion, exemplified by policies promoting gender equality and the Women’s Empowerment Program, underscores his commitment to building a just and equitable society. His rejection of personal enrichment, maintaining his modest military salary, and his anti-corruption measures, such as the prosecution of former officials, reflect a leadership style rooted in integrity and accountability—qualities that echo the legacy of Burkina Faso’s revered revolutionary leader, Thomas Sankara.

However, while we recognize the necessity of decisive action in times of crisis, the Africa Institute on Governance and Security firmly believes that sustainable stability and prosperity can only be achieved through inclusive, transparent, and democratic governance. Military rule, no matter how well-intentioned, is inherently fragile and risks fostering cycles of instability, as history has shown in Burkina Faso and across the Sahel. The extension of the transitional period to 2029, following national consultations in May 2024, and the decision to prioritize security over elections, while understandable given the ongoing insurgency, raise concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and the potential for prolonged junta rule. The AIGS respectfully urges Captain Traoré to reaffirm his commitment to restoring constitutional and democratic rule, as initially pledged, to ensure Burkina Faso’s long-term political stability, legitimacy, and international credibility.
To support Burkina Faso’s return to democratic governance, the AIGS proposes the following actionable steps:

1. Establish a Clear and Inclusive Transition Roadmap: Develop a transparent timeline for the transition to civilian rule, with measurable milestones, including the organization of free, fair, and inclusive elections. Engage civil society, political parties, traditional leaders, and marginalized groups in the process to ensure broad representation and legitimacy.

2. Strengthen Independent Institutions: Bolster the capacity of independent electoral and judicial institutions to oversee credible elections and uphold the rule of law. The establishment of such bodies, as noted in some of Traoré’s reforms, must be prioritized to build public trust and prevent electoral disputes.

3. Prioritize Constitutional Reform: Convene a national dialogue to draft a new constitution that addresses historical governance flaws, ensures inclusivity, and prevents the return of corrupt leadership. This process should balance the need for strong governance with checks and balances to safeguard democratic principles.

4. Enhance Civic Education and Participation: Invest in programs to educate citizens on democratic processes and encourage youth and women’s participation in political life. This will empower Burkinabé to actively shape their nation’s future and sustain democratic gains.

5. Collaborate with Regional and International Partners: Work with the African Union, ECOWAS (despite the current withdrawal), and other development partners to secure technical and financial support for the transition process. Rebuilding ties with regional bodies can enhance Burkina Faso’s stability and attract foreign investment.

6. Balance Security and Democratic Priorities: While security remains paramount, allocate resources to technical preparations for elections, such as voter registration and electoral infrastructure, to demonstrate progress toward democratic restoration. Leverage improvements in security to create safe spaces for political engagement.

The Africa Institute on Governance and Security acknowledges the complexity of Burkina Faso’s challenges, including the jihadist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions. We believe that Captain Traoré’s leadership, with its focus on national resilience and Pan-African solidarity, can serve as a catalyst for transformative change. However, true stability and progress depend on transitioning from military rule to a democratic system that reflects the will of the Burkinabé people. By implementing these steps, Captain Traoré has the opportunity to cement his legacy not only as a revolutionary leader but as a statesman who guided Burkina Faso toward a prosperous, democratic future.

We call on the international community, including the African Union, United Nations, and civil society organizations, to support Burkina Faso in this critical juncture by providing resources, expertise, and diplomatic engagement to facilitate a smooth and inclusive transition. The AIGS stands ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to advance governance, security, and democratic principles in Burkina Faso and across the continent.

Signed,
Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah
Governance Specialist and Security Strategist
Africa Institute on Governance and Security
April 24, 2025