theguardian.com
Burkina Faso Considers Reinstating Death Penalty
Burkina Faso's military government is considering reinstating the death penalty, despite a global trend toward abolition. This decision reflects the junta's broader agenda, which includes extending its rule and passing controversial laws.
English
United Kingdom
PoliticsHuman Rights ViolationsMilitaryAfricaLawDeath Penalty
Amnesty InternationalTransitional Legislative Assembly (Alt)Burkina Faso Government
Rodrigue BayalaBlaise CompaoréIbrahim Traoré
- What is the current status of the death penalty in Burkina Faso?
- Burkina Faso's military regime is considering reinstating the death penalty, which was abolished in 2018. A government source confirmed that the proposal will be discussed and then submitted to the Transitional Legislative Assembly for adoption.
- When was the last execution in Burkina Faso and who were the victims?
- The last execution in Burkina Faso occurred in 1988, involving four individuals accused of an attempted coup against President Blaise Compaoré.
- What is Amnesty International's stance on the death penalty in Africa?
- Amnesty International reports a global rise in the death penalty, with a significant increase in executions and death sentences in Africa, while noting that several sub-Saharan African countries have abolished capital punishment.
- What is the role of the Justice Minister in the reinstatement process?
- Justice Minister Rodrigue Bayala stated that the death penalty issue is under discussion and will be included in the draft criminal code, reflecting the vision of head of state Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
- How does Burkina Faso's position on capital punishment compare to other African nations?
- While some African nations are abolishing the death penalty, Burkina Faso's junta, which extended its rule for five more years in May, is moving towards reinstating it, demonstrating a contrasting trend in the region.