Burkina Faso has officially pardoned 21 soldiers convicted of involvement in the 2015 failed coup. According to an official decree issued last week, the country’s military ruler, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, granted them amnesty as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against terrorism. The announcement follows Traoré’s December 2023 pledge to pardon individuals connected to the coup attempt.
Burkina Faso has been under military rule since September 2022, facing internal unrest and growing security threats. The decision to pardon the soldiers is expected to boost the military’s capacity as the country battles jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
Who Are the Soldiers Pardoned in Burkina Faso?
The 21 soldiers pardoned by Burkina Faso include six officers and 15 lower-ranking military personnel. Among them are two former unit commanders of the elite presidential guard. These individuals were convicted in 2019 for offenses such as harming state security, murder, and treason.
However, high-profile figures linked to the failed coup, such as General Gilbert Diendéré, the former chief of staff under ex-president Blaise Compaoré, and former Foreign Minister Djibril Bassolé, remain imprisoned. Diendéré was sentenced to 20 years, while Bassolé received a 10-year sentence.
Reintegration and Conditions for Amnesty
The Burkina Faso government’s decision to pardon the 21 soldiers comes with strict conditions. The decree states that while they will be reintegrated into the military, they will not be eligible for compensation or career progression.
To qualify for amnesty, convicted individuals must show a “patriotic commitment” and actively engage in the country’s fight against terrorism. The justice ministry previously announced that around 1,200 people connected to the coup attempt would be pardoned starting in January 2024.
Burkina Faso Pardons 21 Soldiers – What This Means for the Country
The pardon of 21 soldiers in Burkina Faso signals the government’s intent to stabilize its security forces amid persistent insurgencies. The junta, led by Traoré, continues to navigate political instability while battling extremist groups.
While the amnesty might strengthen the army, it also raises concerns about whether former coup plotters can be trusted within the ranks. As Burkina Faso fights for security and stability, We are watching to see if this decision brings unity or further division.
