The African Union (AU) has urged Burkina Faso’s authorities to expedite the return to constitutional order by holding elections and reopening the political space, while reaffirming its commitment to maintaining dialogue with Ouagadougou and supporting the country’s fight against terrorism.
High-level meetings in Ouagadougou
During a visit to Burkina Faso’s capital, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf met with Prime Minister Jean Emmanuel Ouédraogo and Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré. Notably, no meeting took place with interim President Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
Following the discussions, Youssouf stressed that despite Burkina Faso’s suspension from AU political bodies following last year’s coup, the organisation remains dedicated to engaging with the transitional authorities. He highlighted the AU’s continued backing for the country’s counterterrorism efforts and its ongoing development initiatives.
Call for political evolution
The AU leader underscored the urgency of advancing the political process, insisting that the transition should restore political parties, reopen democratic space, and pave the way for elections to restore constitutional governance.
Youssouf also advocated for strengthened ties between Burkina Faso and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), despite the country’s withdrawal in early 2025 alongside Mali and Niger to form the Sahel States Confederation (AES). He called for enhanced cooperation among regional bodies to address shared challenges.
Sovereignty and institutional reforms
In a statement, the AU reaffirmed its commitment to Burkina Faso’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The organisation also noted that the Burkinabè Prime Minister had reiterated his government’s support for the AU’s institutional reforms and its drive to boost financial autonomy.
Youssouf’s visit is part of a wider regional tour, following his earlier meetings with Mali’s transitional authorities.