(Ecofin Agency) - When he came to power on September 30, 2022, following a military coup, Captain Ibrahim Traoré said the deteriorating security situation needed to be addressed.

Burkina Faso's transitional President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, made a resolute declaration in an exclusive interview broadcast on national television, RTB, last September 29. "Elections are not a current priority; security is,” he said, stressing that the primary goal of the transitional government is to ensure nationwide security before conducting elections. He highlighted the importance of inclusive elections, where all citizens can participate, and candidates can campaign throughout the country without fearing attacks.

"There will be no elections concentrated solely in Ouagadougou or Bobo Dioulasso. So we have to ensure security first. We've come for security", he said, accusing other countries of delaying the process by refusing to deliver equipment. "Countries still under the influence of imperialists have chosen to block our equipment [...] you urge us to expedite the elections, yet you are the ones impeding the equipment and preventing us from engaging in the necessary actions."

Captain Traoré's statement comes amid a deepening crisis in Burkina Faso. Authorities indicated they have foiled a coup attempt involving Burkinabe officers last week. The military authorities have noted an increase in attempts to destabilize the regime in recent months, coinciding with a surge in terrorist attacks.

Many political parties and civil society organizations have had their activities suspended in Burkina Faso since October 2022. The aim, according to the military authorities, is to better direct resources to reconquer the almost 40% of the territory currently under terrorist control.

The next presidential election is scheduled for July 2024, with constitutional reforms expected to include "religious and community leaders" in the coming days as preparations for the election continue.