Democracy Is Overrated – Burkina Faso’s Leader Declares Revolution the Real Path to Progress

Burkina Faso’s interim leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has stirred fresh controversy with his bold declaration that democracy isn’t essential for national development. Speaking at a flag-raising event held at the Koulouba Palace, Traoré openly rejected the notion that democratic governance is the key to progress—insisting that his country is forging a different path.

“We’re not in a democracy—we’re in a revolutionary movement,” Traoré said with conviction. “This talk of democracy or unchecked freedoms has no place in the current reality of Burkina Faso.”

Traoré, who rose to power after a military coup in 2022, criticized what he described as the chaos that often arises from democratic ideals. According to him, excessive emphasis on individual rights and freedoms only leads to societal disorder.

“When everyone insists on doing and saying whatever they want, the result is not freedom—it’s confusion,” he argued.

He further claimed that no nation has ever developed purely because of democracy. In his view, democracy is something that may follow development—but should never be seen as the foundation for it.

Since taking over from former interim president Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, the 37-year-old military captain has consistently pushed back against Western political systems. He instead champions what he calls a “popular, progressive revolution” designed to reflect the unique needs and challenges of Burkina Faso.

His latest remarks are likely to deepen tensions between the country’s transitional government and international partners who have continued to press for a return to civilian rule across West Africa’s troubled Sahel region.

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