In a joint statement on Thursday 6 October, the three magistrates’ unions of Burkina Faso (SAMAB, SBM, SMB) reviewed the national situation. They said they took note of the events of the night of 29 to 30 September 2022 and recalled their commitment to constitutional order.
The coup, a surprise to many
“Like the entire population of Burkina Faso in general and the population of Ouagadougou in particular, the magistrates’ unions were surprised by the crackling of arms in Ouagadougou on the night of 29 to 30 September 2022, which led to the declaration of the seizure of power by a group of soldiers at the hands of Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo DAMIBA”, are the first words of the magistrates’ unions’ joint statement.
Trade unions not in favour of taking power by force
Trade unions not in favour of taking power by force
While recalling their attachment to the constitutional order, they once again condemn the seizure of power by force of arms.
The need to respect the independence of the judiciary
Aware of the necessary and imperative continuity of the State for the restoration of constitutional order and the preservation of peace, the magistrates’ unions call on the new authorities to :
respect the independence of the judiciary and create optimal conditions for its proper functioning; ensure respect for individual and collective freedoms; ensure the continuity of the State by carrying out its regalian missions; ensure the securing of the territory, the adequate care of victims of terrorism and the return of internally displaced persons to their places of origin.
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In addition, the leaders of the three unions invited all magistrates to continue to carry out their duties serenely, to follow closely the evolution of the situation and to be ready for whatever it may require.
