Pretoria - The South African government has expressed concern at the on-going political developments in the Republic of Burkina Faso.
It is reported that the growing upheaval in Ouagadougou, the capital of Burkina Faso, has resulted in the destruction of several key institutions, including the police headquarters. The army and police have been deployment to monitor events on the streets.
South Africa has appealed to the people and all political leaders in that country to refrain from any further violent activities that may undermine peace, security and stability. It has also called on all relevant parties to work speedily and through an inclusive process towards the restoration of constitutional order.
The South African government joins the call made by the African Union (AU) to the government of Burkina Faso to respect the wishes of the people, as well as the prevailing constitution of Burkina Faso.
The Burkina Faso parliament had been due to vote on a plan to change the constitution to allow President Blaise Compaore -- who took power in a coup in 1987 -- to stand for re-election again next year, when he was due to stand down.
Compaore's attempt to remain in power has deeply divided Burkina Faso.
“South Africa wishes to remind all those involved in the current developments in Burkina Faso of the AU’s position of rejecting unconstitutional changes of government.
“The South African government is monitoring the unfolding situation and will continue to do so. We urge all involved, including Burkina Faso's security forces, to adhere to non-violence, and to allow for an environment in which issues can be debated in a peaceful and inclusive manner,” the Department of International Relations and Co-operations said in a statement.
All South Africans living in or visiting Burkina Faso are advised to register on the ROSA system and stay away from all protest sites. For assistance, South Africans can contact the South African Embassy in Ouagadougou on 00-226 774 121 21 or 00-226 503 760 98. – SAnews.gov.za
