Burkina Faso Coup Leader Gen Diendere Charged, To Face Military Tribunal

Posted by African Examiner African News, Latest Headlines Wednesday, October 7th, 2015

The leader of last month’s short-lived coup in Burkina Faso has been charged with crimes including threatening state security and murder.

Gen Gilbert Diendere is expected to face trial before a military tribunal.

Interim President Michel Kafando was reinstated two weeks ago after intervention from the army and West African leaders.

The presidential guards’ unit that carried out the coup is to be disbanded.

BBC West Africa correspondent Thomas Fessy says Gen Diendere has been formally charged with 11 crimes including threatening state security, murder, collusion with foreign forces, voluntary assault and wilful destruction of property.

Former Foreign Minister Djibril Bassole, who was also arrested in connection with the coup, has also been charged. Mr Bassole has always denied any involvement.

BBC