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Blaise Compaore
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Burkina
Faso’s President Blaise Compaoré, one of Africa’s longest-serving autocrats,
has resigned, forced out of power by a popular revolt over his attempt to
extend his 27-year rule by additional five years.
Multiple media source report that Mr. Compaoré is no longer in power, the army confirmed Friday, a day after
protesters set fire on the parliament, marched on the presidential villa and at
least three people died.
Mr. Compaoré had earlier said he would step down after a 12-month transitional
government had ended.
However,
the opposition continued to demand that he resign, angry at his attempts to
amend the constitution and extend his rule.
The
army imposed curfew Thursday and announced a transitional government that will
last one year, but refused to state clearly who will lead the government.
The
head of the armed forces, General Honore Traore, had earlier dissolved
parliament and announced talks with all political parties.
Hundreds of soldiers in
Burkina Faso on Thursday joined demonstrators opposing plans to extend Mr. Compaoré’s nearly three-decade rule, Radio France Internationale reported.
Today,
hundreds marched in the capital. “We don't want him. We want him out of power.
He is not our president,” demonstrator Ouedrago Yakubo told Reuters.
Blaise
Compaoré stepped down, making his resignation statement.
Later
in the day, an armed convoy was observed traveling towards the Ghanaian border.
Compaoré was thought to be inside.
Burkina Faso's armed forces
chief, General Honore Traore, announced he had taken charge. 
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