BBC:
Burkina Faso leaders agree transitional framework
A
blueprint for the formation of and transition of power to a new civilian
government in Burkina Faso received unanimous approval in a recent meeting in
Ouagadougou (Capital of Burkina Faso). In 2013, former President Blaise
Compaoré introduced measures that would allow him to extend his term as
President by an additional five years and – in principle – for the foreseeable
future. Such actions instigated mass protests throughout the state resulting in
Compaoré’s resignation in late October, 27 years after first assuming power. Lt
Col Isaac Zida assumed on the 1st of November.
The
approve charter states:
“An interim president will be chosen by a special college composed of religious,
military, political, civil and traditional leaders.”“The president will then name a prime minister to appoint a 25-member government.”
“The charter also calls for a 90-member national transitional council to serve as a legislative body.”
While
those in attendance supported the proposed blueprint unanimously, I am curious
to the extent which the general populace approves. I do, however, recognize
though that a metric of public approval of the proposed plan in its entirety
may not quite be relevant to the general discussion given the historical lack
of political involvement in the state. What is clear is that there is
widespread approval for an immediate transition to a civilian government.
I am
also somewhat concerned about the manner in which this transitional/interim government
is to be appointed. It appears that a large amount of power is being allocated
into the hands of a few select individuals. It appears as though once the interim
president is chosen, they can choose their prime minister and the result
25-member government. What controls exist to ensure that this interim government
will not make a grab for power? Compaoré emerged as a consequence of a coup.
How will the state prevent leaders from assuming too much power in the future?
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