Burkina Faso’s military government, led by 

Burkina Faso’s military government, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has officially dissolved the country’s independent electoral commission (CENI), the body responsible for organizing elections. The decision comes amid concerns about the high annual cost of maintaining the commission, which reportedly exceeds 1 billion CFA francs (approximately $870,000).

The junta accused CENI of being heavily influenced by foreign election observers which they say undermines trust in the electoral process and further inflates expenses. Going forward, responsibility for organizing elections will be transferred to the Ministry of Territorial Administration, a move the government claims will simplify election monitoring, reduce fraud, and lower overall costs.

This development occurs within the context of an extended transition period to civilian rule, now delayed until July 2029, after the military seized power in a coup in September 2022. Captain Traoré remains the country’s leader and retains the right to run in future elections under the new timeline.

While the government argues this change will improve efficiency and sovereignty, critics warn it risks eroding democratic safeguards by eliminating an independent election body and consolidating control within the military-led administration.

Burkina Faso’s political future remains uncertain as the country navigates security challenges and the path to a civilian government.