Burkina Faso's Military Regime Abolishes Electoral Commission, Consolidates Power

Burkina Faso's military leaders have dissolved the electoral commission, deeming it financially unnecessary, as they shift control of elections to the interior ministry. This move reinforces their grip on power, extending the timeline for a return to civilian rule until July 2029 and effectively ensuring that Capt Ibrahim Traoré remains at the helm.

Burkina Faso's military rulers have taken a significant step in consolidating their authority by disbanding the national electoral commission, which they described as an unnecessary expense. State-run RTB TV reported that the management of future elections would now fall under the purview of the interior ministry. This decision follows the junta's assumption of power in September 2022, amidst widespread criticism regarding the previous civilian government's inability to combat rising jihadist violence effectively.

The military leaders, under Capt Ibrahim Traoré, have enacted a series of transformative measures since their takeover, including a controversial postponement of elections necessary for restoring civilian governance. Originally scheduled for last year, the elections have now been delayed until July 2029, thus allowing Traoré to maintain his leadership role and potentially participate in the forthcoming presidential election.

Territorial Administration Minister Emile Zerbo announced that the electoral commission received approximately $870,000 (£650,000) annually, asserting that its dissolution will enhance national control over the electoral process and diminish foreign influence. This move aligns with the junta’s broader strategy after rejecting support from France, the nation’s former colonial ruler, and instead courting alliances with Russia.

However, the military's approach to curbing Islamist militancy, which has included accusations of targeting civilians and stifling political dissent, is drawing increased scrutiny from human rights organizations. Reports indicate that jihadist group JNIM has dramatically escalated its attacks within the country, executing over 280 assaults in the first half of 2025 alone—twice the number reported during the same period in 2024.

As Burkina Faso navigates this tumultuous political landscape, questions about the military's effectiveness and the future of democratic governance persist, with growing international concern over human rights violations and the ramifications of prolonged military rule.