In a sudden move, Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traore, dismissed Prime Minister Apollinaire Joachim Kyelem de Tambela and dissolved the government on Friday.
The decree terminating Tambela’s official functions did not provide a reason for the dismissal, but stated that members of the dissolved government would continue to handle ongoing business until a new government is formed.
Tambela had served as prime minister since October 2022, surviving multiple reshuffles.
His removal marks another shift in Burkina Faso’s turbulent political landscape, which has been marred by instability since January 2022.
The country was plunged into crisis when Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba seized power, ousting elected President Roch Marc Christian Kabore. Damiba was later overthrown by Traore, who now heads the junta regime.
Burkina Faso’s alignment with fellow Sahel nations Mali and Niger, also led by military juntas, has further complicated the situation. The three countries formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) last September, severing ties with former colonial ruler France and pivoting towards Russia.
This move has underscored their commitment to sovereignty and a shift towards partnerships that better align with their current political goals.
