Burkina Faso’s transitional parliament has approved a law banning political parties, a move that further consolidates the control of the military-led government headed by Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
The decision was adopted on Monday by members of the Transitional Legislative Assembly, which was set up following the 2022 coup that brought Traoré to power.
According to the new law, all political parties and related activities are suspended until the end of the country’s transition period, which has been extended to July 2029.
Authorities say the measure is aimed at restoring order, strengthening national unity and preventing political divisions as the country continues to battle widespread insecurity caused by jihadist violence.
Supporters of the decision argue that political competition has weakened the state and distracted from efforts to fight armed groups, while critics warn that banning parties undermines democratic principles and silences opposition voices.
Burkina Faso has experienced two coups in 2022 and remains under military rule, with the government insisting that security and stability must take priority before a return to civilian governance can be considered.
