Capt Ibrahim Traoré, Burkina Faso’s military ruler, urged citizens to forget democracy. He claimed the system kills and does not suit Africans during a state TV interview. Traoré seized power in a coup three years ago.
Traoré first promised elections by July 2024 but extended junta rule five more years two months early. Authorities banned all political parties in January to rebuild the state.
Traoré cited Libya as proof. Western powers imposed democracy there after killing Muammar Gaddafi, leading to chaos, bloodshed, and no elections. He positioned himself as a revolutionary defying Western imperialism.
Traoré called politicians liars, sycophants, and dividers. Burkina Faso rejects copying others and builds its own system. Traditional leaders and grassroots groups drive sovereignty, patriotism, and mobilization.
Traoré stressed economic and military self-reliance plus hard work. Citizens must exceed six- or eight-hour days to catch richer nations.
