Government response

UK expresses concern over situation in Burkina Faso

Africa Minister Grant Shapps condemns violence in Burkina Faso and calls for immediate release of members of the interim government

• From: Foreign & Commonwealth Office and The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP
• Published: 17 September 2015

The Minister for Africa Grant Shapps MP said:

The UK is deeply concerned by the actions of elements of the military in Burkina Faso in what appears to be an attempted coup. We strongly condemn the use of force and, together with our international partners, call on those holding members of the interim government to release them immediately, stepping back from any further unacceptable actions. It is critical for Burkina Faso and its people that peaceful and democratic elections take place on 11 October. We will continue to work with the international community to support these and Burkina Faso’s transition to a peaceful democracy.

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Published 17 September 2015