In a decisive move by Burkina Faso's military government, all political parties have been disbanded and the legislation governing them invalidated, following a decree authorized by the government on Thursday. This action aligns with a broader pattern of clampdowns on political expression since the military assumed control in a coup in 2022.
The activity of political parties had already been suspended under the military administration prior to this announcement. According to the government-operated news service, the decree mandates that the assets held by these now-defunct parties are to be transferred to the state treasury.
Minister of Territorial Administration Emile Zerbo explained that the decision was prompted by findings that political parties had strayed from the established principles underlying their creation. "The government believes that the multiplication of political parties has led to excesses, fostering division among citizens and weakening the social fabric," Zerbo stated following the Council of Ministers meeting where this resolution was ratified.
Looking ahead, draft laws intended to regulate the formation and operations of political parties and analogous groups will be presented to the legislative body promptly, the minister added.
Burkina Faso currently joins a contingent of West and Central African nations experiencing increased military coups and deferred progress towards democratic governance. Since seizing power in 2022, the junta has implemented significant reforms including the deferment of anticipated elections aimed at restoring civilian authority and the dissolution of the independent electoral commission.