Burkina Faso's Junta Abolishes Electoral Commission, Consolidating Power Ahead of Future Elections

In a controversial move, Burkina Faso's military government has officially disbanded the national electoral commission, transferring electoral responsibilities to the interior ministry, signaling a shift towards consolidated control ahead of a delayed return to civilian governance.

Burkina Faso's military government has announced the disbandment of its electoral commission, branding it an unnecessary financial burden. State-run media report that the interior ministry will now oversee elections, a decision made by the ruling junta that has been in power since September 2022. The junta's leader, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, has extended the transitional period towards civilian governance until July 2029, effectively allowing him to remain in power and eligible for the upcoming presidential elections.

The Territorial Administration Minister, Emile Zerbo, suggested that shutting down the electoral body, which cost approximately $870,000 annually, would "enhance our sovereign control" of the electoral process and reduce foreign influences. The junta's approach has been marked by a shift away from former colonial ally France, reaching out instead to Russia for support, amid criticisms of rising Islamist violence in the country. Despite military operations, rights organizations allege that actions against militants have included targeting civilians and suppressing political dissent. Jihadist violence, exemplified by a reported doubling of attacks in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, raises concerns about the effectiveness of the military's strategy.

As political dynamics evolve, observers remain wary about the implications of these developments on democracy and human rights in Burkina Faso.