Burkina Faso flagPolitics & Government Guide

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions in Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is under a military junta-led transitional government following the 2022 coup, with Captain Ibrahim Traoré as transitional president. Elections promised for 2024 have been delayed amid ongoing jihadist insurgency and security challenges. Civic space has shrunk with restrictions on press freedom and dissent.

Government Type

Military junta transitional government

Legal System

Civil law system based on the French model

Head of State

Transitional President Ibrahim Traoré(since 2022)

Head of Government

Prime Minister Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambèla(Independent)since 2022

Legislature

Type:unicameral
Lower House:National Assembly (127 seats)

Voting Rights

Suffrage is universal for citizens aged 18 and over; elections suspended under transitional military rule.

Recent Developments

  • Military junta extended transition period beyond July 2024 due to insecurity, delaying elections.
  • General mobilization plan announced in April 2024 to combat armed groups controlling up to 50% of territory.
  • Crackdown on media, journalists, and dissent under transitional authorities in 2023-2024.
  • Transition charter adopted on March 1, 2022, allowing military rule for up to five years.
Voting Age18
SuffrageUniversal
Constitution1991
Regions13