President Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso has stirred fresh debate after boldly declaring that no country in history has developed under a democratic system, asserting instead that his country is in the middle of a “popular, progressive revolution.”
Speaking during a flag-raising ceremony at the historic Koulouba Palace last week, Traoré said it was important for Burkinabè citizens—and the world—to understand that the nation is not operating under democratic norms, but undergoing a transformational uprising rooted in people’s power.
“If we must be clear, we are not in a democracy,” the 37-year-old leader said. “We are in a revolution. And in this context, talk of democracy or unchecked freedom of action and speech has no place. When everyone believes they are equally free to do as they please, society falls into disorder.”
Traoré, who came to power through a coup in September 2022 that removed interim leader Paul-Henri Damiba, has repeatedly distanced himself from Western democratic frameworks. His latest comments go even further—rejecting the very premise that democracy leads to national development.
“Name one country that has achieved real development through democracy,” he challenged. “You can’t. Democracy, if anything, comes after development—it’s never the foundation.”
His remarks, quoted by local outlet Burkina24, reflect a growing sentiment across some parts of West Africa where frustration with democratic governments—often seen as corrupt or beholden to foreign interests—has led to military takeovers, from Mali to Niger and Guinea.
For Traoré, the focus is clear: revolution before reform, structure before speeches.
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Still, his vision isn’t without pushback. International observers and human rights advocates have warned that rejecting democracy could pave the way for repression, especially in a region already battling insurgency, poverty, and political instability.
Yet, Traoré has gained popularity among younger citizens, who see him as a no-nonsense leader prioritizing tangible results over imported ideologies. His recent decision to decline Saudi Arabia’s offer to build 200 mosques in the country is a case in point. Instead, Traoré urged the Kingdom to channel those funds into much-needed infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and roads—investments he says would serve all citizens regardless of religion.
“We are not anti-faith,” he clarified in an earlier address. “But we must meet the material needs of our people. Piety must be balanced with progress.”
At just 37, Traoré is Africa’s youngest head of state, and one of its most controversial. Yet, in a region wracked by violent extremism and rising public disillusionment, his rhetoric around self-determination and homegrown revolution is resonating.
Whether his rejection of democracy will bear the fruit of lasting development—or sow seeds of future instability—remains to be seen. For now, Burkina Faso is charting a course that defies conventional wisdom, and its leader is unapologetically steering the wheel.
