Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Ouagadougou (Agenzia Fides) - A novena for peace in the Country was proclaimed by Cardinal Philippe Ouédraogo, Archbishop of Ouagadougou, capital of Burkina Faso, upset by the popular uprising that on October 31 forced President Blaise Compaoré to resign and to exile in Côte d'Ivoire, while the military took power (see Fides 31/10/2014).
"Daughters and sons of our Family Church of God, I urge you to pray (from November 2 to 9). Pray for reconciliation, justice and peace in our Country", wrote the Cardinal in a message released by Caritas Burkina Faso. Cardinal Ouédraogo composed a special prayer in which God is asked "to give institutions to our Country that ensure welfare, freedom and peace".
Meanwhile, the political situation in Burkina Faso appears disorientated. The Army has suspended civil powers and formed a military junta led by Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Zida, number 2 of the Presidential Guard. The military has declared that this is an interim measure, pending the return of power to civilians. The opposition is worried and calls for the army to take a step back and allow civil society to retake the situation.
From October 31 to November 2, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of the capital clashing with the military. At least one person was killed. In the demonstrations held in previous days, which led to the resignation of the President, at least 30 people died. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 03/11/2014)
