Burkina Faso’s Junta Leader Sacks Prime Minister, Dissolves Government

In a surprising political shake-up, Burkina Faso’s military ruler, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has dismissed Prime Minister Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambela and dissolved the entire government. The announcement, made through a decree signed by Traoré on Friday, did not provide specific reasons for the move but stated that members of the dissolved government would continue their duties until a new cabinet is formed.

A Civilian Prime Minister Ousted

Tambela, a civilian, was appointed as prime minister in 2022, shortly after Capt Traoré came to power through a coup. His removal echoes similar events in neighboring Mali, where junta leader Gen Assimi Goïta recently dismissed civilian prime minister Choguel Maïga and replaced him with a military official, further tightening the junta’s grip on power.

It is unclear whether Traoré will follow Mali's example by appointing a military figure as prime minister, which could reinforce the junta’s hold on governance amid mounting criticism.

Security Challenges in the Sahel

Burkina Faso remains embroiled in a severe security crisis, battling frequent attacks from jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS. The military, which seized power promising to improve security, has struggled to stem the violence, with attacks continuing unabated. The worsening situation has displaced millions and left large swathes of the country outside government control.

Traoré’s government had pledged to prioritize the fight against insurgents, but the persistent instability raises doubts about its effectiveness.

Growing Concerns About Junta Rule

Observers worry that junta leaders in the Sahel region are delaying promised transitions to civilian rule to prolong their time in power. Both Burkina Faso and Mali, which share similar challenges, have faced criticism for postponing elections initially promised as part of their respective transitions.

The dismissal of Tambela might further consolidate military rule in Burkina Faso, signaling a potential shift away from power-sharing with civilians.

The latest developments come amid rising frustration among citizens over the inability of military governments to deliver on their promises of improved security and governance, leaving the region in a precarious state of uncertainty.