Burkina Faso: The UN president condemns any attempt to seize power by force of arms
Allegedly, Captain Ibrahim Traore appeared on Friday on national television announcing that Lt. Col. Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba, who won the country’s democratic presidency in January, was removed from power “after failing to end the terrorist violence” he had imposed. 2 million people to flee their homes.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, António Guterres opposed “any attempt to seize power by force of arms” and called on all actors to “avoid violence and seek dialogue”.
The UN chief also expressed his full support for regional efforts towards a quick return to constitutional order in the country.
“Burkina Faso needs peace, stability and unity to fight terrorist groups and criminal networks operating in parts of the country”, he said.
Mr. Guterres also emphasized the commitment of the United Nations to accompany the people of Burkina Faso in their efforts towards peace and stability.
The crisis is ongoing
According to media reports, gunfire was heard on Saturday in Burkina Faso’s capital Ouagadougou and several streets were blocked amid “irregular” military operations.
Burkina Faso continues to face a humanitarian crisis, with almost one percent of the population in need of aid.
According to the United Nations Office for the Management of Humanitarian Affairs, in June of this year, more than 1.5 million people have been displaced in Burkina Faso as a result of the lack of security in the country. Almost two percent of displaced people are children.
