Ten years since Compaoré’s overthrow: Burkina Faso’s decade of turmoil

It’s been a decade since Blaise Compaoré was overthrown in Burkina Faso, ending his 27-year rule in just 48 hours.

The protests against his attempt to extend his presidency through constitutional reform led to massive demonstrations on October 30, 2014, forcing Compaoré to resign the following day.

Since then, Burkina Faso has experienced significant political instability, marked by three coups, two presidential elections, and a dramatic rise in terrorist attacks.

The country has struggled to combat extremist violence, and the security situation has worsened, affecting both rural areas and urban centers.

Compaoré’s departure also raised hopes for accountability regarding historical crimes, such as the 1987 assassination of revolutionary leader Thomas Sankara.

However, Compaoré fled to Côte d’Ivoire, where he continues to live in exile, evading prosecution despite being sentenced to life in prison in absentia for his role in Sankara’s murder.

The political landscape has shifted dramatically, with civil society organizations and political parties that played key roles in Compaoré’s ousting now facing significant restrictions and being largely silenced.

As Burkina Faso marks this somber anniversary, the population continues to grapple with the consequences of a decade marked by upheaval, insecurity, and uncertainty about the future.

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