Burkina Faso’s cardinal analyzes national turmoil
November 06, 2014
Cardinal Philippe Ouédraogo of Ouagadougou said that the recent military takeover of the West African nation was not a coup but resulted from a popular uprising against the autocratic president who had ruled since 1987.
“The president underestimated the anger of the population that aspires to greater social justice,” he said. “We are dealing with a popular uprising, and not a military coup.”
He added, however, that “the seizure of power by Col. Isaac Zida is not in compliance with the Constitution, which provides that the transition is ensured by a civilian,” according to a Fides report. “There is a willingness to dialogue with different political parties and with the civil and religious bodies in the country, to get out of the crisis as soon as possible.”
The prelate also said that “"the Muslim, Catholic and Protestant communities are united and tolerant.”
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Further information:
- Cardinal Ouédraogo: "There is a desire for dialogue to end the crisis" (Fides)
- African cardinal declares week of prayer following military takeover (CWN, 11/4)
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