A military junta has seized power in Burkina Faso. Mali, Guinea-Conakry and Burkina Faso are now controlled by soldiers which imperils democracy not only in these countries but in the entire region. This article by Trevor Filseth is published by National Interest. Here is an excerpt:

In a confirmation that a coup d’etat was carried out in Burkina Faso, representatives from Burkina Faso’s military announced that they had deposed President Roch Kabore, dissolved the government and legislature, and suspended the country’s constitution.

The statement announcing the coup was signed by Lt. Col. Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba, the leader of the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR, the formal name of the military junta that seized control of the country.

“MPSR, which includes all sections of the army, has decided to end President Kabore’s post today,” the statement said.

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