Burkina Faso’s Military Government Dissolves All Political Parties

Jan 30, 2026, 2:40 AM

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Burkina Faso's military-led government has issued a decree dissolving all political parties, an action that follows their suspension after a coup four years ago. The council of ministers approved this decree on Thursday, as part of the government's ongoing efforts to curb dissent while struggling with security challenges linked to extremist groups, including al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS).

Interior Minister Emile Zerbo stated that the decision is part of a broader initiative to "rebuild the state," which he claims has suffered from alleged abuses and dysfunction within the country's multiparty system. A government review concluded that the proliferation of political parties has led to divisions and weakened social cohesion. In light of these findings, the decree disbands all political parties and political formations, mandating that all their assets be transferred to the state.

Before the coup, Burkina Faso had over 100 registered political parties, with 15 gaining representation in parliament following the 2020 general election. The junta, led by Captain Ibrahim Traore since a September 2022 coup, has previously suspended political activities, asserting that the political landscape had become untenable.

This latest decree comes as the military government has intensified its crackdown on dissenting voices and civil liberties. Following the coup, the leaders have cut ties with France, the former colonial power, and sought security support from Russia. The government has also restricted access to international news outlets, including the BBC and Human Rights Watch, as part of its broader strategy to control information.

The dissolution of political parties in Burkina Faso mirrors a disturbing trend in the region, where military regimes in neighboring countries, such as Mali and Niger, have also taken similar actions. These measures have raised significant concerns regarding the future of democracy and political discourse in West Africa, as military authorities consolidate power and reduce the space for civic engagement.

The military junta's actions in Burkina Faso reflect a growing pattern of governance characterized by the suppression of political freedoms and the establishment of a more authoritarian rule. By disbanding political parties, the government aims to eliminate opposition and unify the political landscape under its control, yet this could exacerbate existing tensions and social divisions within the country.

In summary, Burkina Faso's decision to dissolve all political parties signifies a significant step towards centralizing power and stifling dissent in a nation grappling with both internal and external challenges. As the junta continues to navigate a complex security landscape, the implications of this decree for the future of governance and civil liberties in Burkina Faso remain to be seen.

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