The recently adopted amnesty law in Burkina Faso has sparked debates about its potential impact on national reconciliation. In a context where challenges related to human rights and crimes against humanity remain prominent, this law can be seen as a step toward reconciliation, but also as a missed opportunity to deliver justice to the victims.

Indeed, on December 30, 2024, Burkina Faso’s Transitional Legislative Assembly (ALT) adopted the law granting amnesty and conditions for the pardon benefiting those convicted in connection with the failed coup attempt of September 2015. This law concerns exclusively acts that occurred in September 2015 and does not call into question the popular uprising of October 30-31, 2014. In September 2019, those accused of the failed coup were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 5 to 20 years. Among the 63 convicted, around thirty have served their sentences, returned to their original units, and are now back in operational theaters.

Burkina Faso has a complex history, notably with Côte d’Ivoire. The amnesty law may be viewed as an attempt to move past the putschists and promote national reconciliation. However, this approach can also be criticized for lacking transparency and accountability for those responsible for crimes. In reality, national reconciliation is a complex process that requires a comprehensive and inclusive approach. Thus, the amnesty law is seen as a step toward reconciliation, but it must be accompanied by concrete measures to promote justice, truth, and reparations for victims. It is also essential to consider the needs and expectations of the various stakeholders and to foster inclusive national dialogue.

The implementation of this amnesty law poses several challenges, particularly regarding the accountability of perpetrators and reparations for victims. It is also necessary to ensure that the law is not used to shield perpetrators or obstruct justice. Transparency and accountability must be guiding principles in the law’s implementation.

In summary, the amnesty law in Burkina Faso can be viewed as a step toward national reconciliation, but it must be paired with concrete measures to advance justice, truth, and victim reparations. It is crucial to consider the needs and expectations of all parties involved and to promote an inclusive national dialogue. Transparency and accountability must remain the foundational principles guiding the law’s execution.