Burkina Faso’s interim leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has rejected the idea that democracy is essential for a country’s development. Speaking during a flag-raising ceremony at the Koulouba Palace, he argued that no country has achieved true development through democratic governance.
Traoré asserted that it is a misconception to believe any nation has thrived under democracy. He stated, “It is impossible to name a country that has developed in democracy. Democracy is only the result.”
He further explained that Burkina Faso is engaged in what he called “a popular, progressive revolution,” which he believes does not include democracy. Traoré emphasized that his country is focused on revolution rather than democratic principles.
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“If we have to say it loud and clear here, we are not in a democracy, we are in a popular, progressive revolution,” Traoré declared.
He added that the concept of democracy, particularly the freedom of expression and action, can lead to disorder, explaining, “As much as you think you are free to speak and act, the other is also free to speak and act, and there we end up with a society of disorder.”
The 37-year-old captain assumed leadership of Burkina Faso after a coup in September 2022, which ousted interim president Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba.