NDP calls for Canadian action to support democracy in Burkina Faso

NDP Foreign Affairs Critic Paul Dewar issued the following statement regarding the situation in Burkina Faso:

“I am very concerned by recent developments in Burkina Faso. The Government of Canada must urge all parties to exercise the utmost restraint, and facilitate an immediate peaceful transition to democratic governance under civilian control.

“After 27 years in power, the former president recently resigned amidst widespread protests opposing his efforts to change constitutional practices for personal benefit. The subsequent assumption of power by the military constitutes a troubling intervention in the democratic process, and must be rapidly succeeded by a consensus-based transition to responsible and accountable civilian rule.

“Canada should work with the African Union and other international partners to support a prompt and peaceful democratic transition. New Democrats stand in solidarity with the aspirations of the Burkinabe people for peace and democracy.”