The Burkinabè government recently adopted a bill on the status of traditional chieftaincies during a Council of Ministers meeting.
Customary and traditional authorities will now have an official status in Burkina Faso. The government made this decision during the examination and adoption of a bill regulating traditional and customary chieftaincy in the country.
According to the Minister of State for Territorial Administration, Emile Zerbo, this bill aims to govern "one of the oldest institutions in our history," which has played a key role in resolving crises. He stated that the law will clearly define the role and function of traditional chieftaincy and integrate it into Burkina Faso’s legal framework.
"It aims to enhance the value of traditional and customary chieftaincy so that it can contribute to consolidating peace in Burkina Faso. The text also outlines the modes of succession for traditional chieftaincy," explained Minister Emile Zerbo.
However, traditional chiefs will not receive any remuneration and will be required to resign if they wish to engage in politics.
"This law allows customary and traditional leaders to fulfill the role we have always envisioned for them in Burkina Faso—uniting the population and strengthening peace," the Minister of State emphasized.
