Burkina Faso: Key Points from the National Forum on the Continuation of the Transition Led by President Ibrahim Traoré
At the closing ceremony of the National Forum on the Continuation of the Transition, the President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, signed the revised Transition Charter. This revision, signed on Saturday evening, represents a crucial step for Burkina Faso by making substantial changes to the initial Charter dated October 14, 2022.
Comprising four titles and 28 articles, the new Charter introduces key innovations aimed at ensuring the stability and development of the country during the Transition period.
One of the key points of this Charter is the extension of the Transition period to five years, starting from July 2, 2024. Additionally, the status of the President of the Transition evolves to that of President of Faso. According to the Charter’s provisions, the President of the Transition will now perform the functions of President of Faso, Head of State, and Supreme Commander of the National Armed Forces. He will be inaugurated with this title by the Constitutional Council.
Another significant innovation is the creation of the KORAG, a new Transition body. According to Article 7 of the Charter, the KORAG is responsible for defining, monitoring, and controlling the implementation of the country’s strategic vision in all areas and by all means. The composition, organization, and functioning of this body are left to the discretion of the President of Faso. KORAG members will work on a voluntary basis and will have authority over the entire national territory.
The Transition government will be composed of 25 members, led by a Prime Minister appointed by the President of Faso. The Prime Minister will be responsible for replacing the Head of State in the event of a vacancy. As for the Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT), it will consist of 71 members exercising their mandate voluntarily but receiving session allowances.
The revised Charter also stipulates that the President of the Transition, the Prime Minister, and the President of the Transitional Legislative Assembly will be eligible for the presidential, legislative, and municipal elections intended to end the Transition.
The participants in the National Forum recommended increasing the number of deputies in the ALT to better represent the various components of society. They also suggested splitting some ministerial departments for increased efficiency.
This revised Transition Charter marks a decisive turning point in managing the Transition in Burkina Faso, establishing a solid foundation for inclusive and effective governance while preparing for a return to normal constitutional order.
