• Burkina Faso's military government has dissolved all political parties since the 2022 coup.
• The decree follows claims that the proliferation of parties fuelled divisions and weakened social cohesion.
• All assets of the dissolved parties will be transferred to the state as part of the crackdown on dissent.
• This action is viewed as a major blow to democracy and civil liberties in the country.
• The military has strengthened ties with Russia for security support while distancing from Western influences.

Burkina Faso's military government has taken the controversial step of dissolving all political parties, which had already been suspended since the coup in September 2022. The decree was implemented on Thursday following a cabinet meeting, aimed at addressing what officials describe as rampant division fueled by the proliferation of political parties. Interior Minister Emile Zerbo stressed that this decision is essential to "rebuild the state" and combat the dysfunction observed within the country's multiparty system, stating that these parties had "fueled divisions among citizens" and weakened the social fabric, according to Al Jazeera and Africanews.

The decree ends the operation of over 100 political parties in the country, with the assets of these dissolved entities now to be transferred to the government. Before this action, parties were allowed to conduct internal operations but were prohibited from public gatherings. Observers have indicated that this dissolution represents a significant setback for democratic processes in Burkina Faso, a nation grappling with a tide of violence from extremist groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS, according to BBC and Al Jazeera.

This move has been criticized by various rights groups, which perceive it as part of a broader strategy to suppress dissent and curtail civic freedoms. The prior suspension of political activities has now led to a complete ban on political party operation, with all legal frameworks governing these parties being abolished. Further complicating the situation, the junta's actions have contributed to a surge in violence and civil instability within the region, as opposition parties and civil movements face increasingly stringent measures, according to Africanews and Al Jazeera.

The military, led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, has intensified its crackdown on dissent, including ordering internet service providers to restrict access to platforms that report on human rights violations in the country. This strategy appears designed to cement the junta's power while isolating it from both domestic and international scrutiny. Critics emphasize that the situation threatens not only Burkina Faso’s democratic framework but also its social cohesion amidst rising violence from armed groups vying for territory and control, according to BBC and Al Jazeera.