Burkina Faso’s government has passed a draft bill granting amnesty to individuals convicted for their roles in the failed 2015 coup. The measure includes conditions requiring those eligible to admit their involvement, demonstrate good behavior, and agree to be deployed in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
The 2015 coup attempt was orchestrated by soldiers from the elite Presidential Security Regiment, loyal to former President Blaise Compaoré, who was ousted in 2014 after 27 years in power. Compaoré’s removal followed massive protests against his bid to amend the constitution to extend his rule. The coup, occurring just weeks before scheduled democratic elections, collapsed after widespread opposition from both the public and parts of the military.
In 2019, several high-ranking officers involved in the coup were sentenced to prison. While appeal judgments remain pending, Justice Minister Bassolma Bazié stated that the amnesty law aims to address delays in the judicial process and resolve lingering issues. A forthcoming decree will outline the individuals eligible for amnesty.
The proposed law has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters view it as a step toward national reconciliation, while critics question its motivations and potential consequences.
Following the failed coup, Burkina Faso held its first peaceful and fair elections in 50 years, leading to the election of President Roch Marc Christian Kaboré. However, Kaboré was overthrown in January 2022 during a military uprising, followed by a second coup nine months later, leaving Burkina Faso under its current leadership.
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