African Union urges Burkina Faso to fast-track political transition

Regional body stresses urgency of restoring constitutional order in Burkina Faso

During a high-level visit to Ouagadougou, the African Union (AU) reiterated its call for Burkina Faso to accelerate its transition back to constitutional rule by organizing elections and reopening the political space. The organization also emphasized its commitment to maintaining open dialogue with the transitional authorities while continuing to support the country’s fight against terrorism.

The AU Commission Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, held meetings with Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister, Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré. Notably, no encounter took place with the transitional president, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, during the visit.

Dialogue and security remain top priorities

Following these discussions, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf underscored that despite Burkina Faso’s suspension from AU political bodies following last year’s coup, the continental organization remains firmly committed to engaging with the interim government. He also highlighted the AU’s ongoing support for Burkina Faso’s counter-terrorism efforts and its dedication to sustaining development initiatives across the nation.

The AU official emphasized that the transition process must evolve toward restoring political parties, reopening democratic space, and holding elections to re-establish constitutional governance. He stressed that these steps are essential for long-term stability and democratic renewal in Burkina Faso.

Regional cooperation under the spotlight

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also urged Burkina Faso to reconnect with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), from which it withdrew in early 2025 alongside Mali and Niger to form the Sahel States Confederation (AES). He called for stronger collaboration between regional blocs to tackle shared security and governance challenges effectively.

In a concluding statement, the AU reaffirmed its unwavering support for Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The organization acknowledged that Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister had reaffirmed his government’s commitment to continental reforms, including efforts to enhance the AU’s financial autonomy.

This visit was part of a broader regional tour by the AU Commission Chairperson, who previously met with Mali’s transitional leadership.