Burkina Faso Junta Extends Rule to 2029 Amid Turmoil and Realigns With Russia In a dramatic and controversial move, Burkina Faso’s military junta has decided to extend its rule until at least 2029, effectively abandoning the elections initially promised for this year. This decision cements the regime's control over the West African nation amidst a backdrop of violent insurgency and a wave of regional coups. Interim leader Ibrahim TraorĂ©, a 36-year-old army captain, signed a new charter into law on Saturday evening, which will come into effect on July 2. This charter not only extends the junta's reign but also elevates TraorĂ© to the position of president and "supreme leader" of the armed forces, granting him the eligibility to contest in future elections, whenever they may be held. The new charter, developed after extensive consultations with lawmakers, security forces, and various religious and civil society groups that largely support the military regime, significan...