Gaoua Residents Rally for Extension of Presidential Transition in Burkina Faso

GAOUA – On Saturday, May 11, 2024, the Regional Coordination of Citizen Watch Associations (CRAVC) of the South-West organized a march in Gaoua to express support for the President of the transition, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, and to call for an extension of the transitional period. Participants, known locally as ‘wayiyans,’ gathered at the Place de la Nation, advocating for continued leadership under Captain Traoré due to his efforts in combating terrorism.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the regional coordinator of CRAVC, the demonstration drew participants from the four provinces of the South-West region: Le Poni, Bougouriba, Noumbiel, and Ioba. The demonstrators marched through the city streets with placards and banners, showing their support for President Traoré and his administration. “We have gathered here at the Place de la Nation to affirm our support for President Traoré and to show our commitment to his projects and initiatives,” Hien stated. He emphasized that the priority for the region is to maintain the current transitional government rather than organize elections, citing the ongoing efforts to restore peace in Burkina Faso.

The demonstrators voiced a strong stance against the international community and local opponents, declaring unwavering support for Traoré to remain in power until full security is re-established. Adama Da, one of the demonstrators, praised the president’s impact since taking office, particularly highlighting the liberation of the department of Djigoué in the Province of Poni, which had suffered significantly over the years.

Support was also expressed by local traditional leaders, including the head of the Gaoua canton, Bifité II, who praised President Traoré as a national pride and a key figure in the country’s recovery. “He is saving the country,” said the canton chief, who urged all Burkinabè to support the president in his mission.