Burkina Faso adopted a new Penal Code on Tuesday, reinstating the death penalty for several offenses, including terrorism, treason and espionage.
The legislation was unanimously approved by all 71 members of the People's Legislative Assembly (ALP) during a session broadcast on parliamentary radio. The reform replaces the 2018 Penal Code, which had abolished capital punishment in the country.
Justice Minister Edasso Rodrigue Bayala justified the decision by citing the requirements of the fight against terrorism. According to him, some armed groups recruit fighters by leading them to believe that they face no more than life imprisonment, even if arrested for acts of terrorism.
For the government, the tougher legislation is therefore intended to strengthen penalties against perpetrators and accomplices of terrorist acts. Offenses related to treason and espionage are also covered by the reinstatement of capital punishment.
The last judicial execution in Burkina Faso dates back to 1988.
