EFF statement on the 64th Independence Anniversary of Burkina Faso
5 August 2024
Today, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) stands in fierce solidarity with the people of Burkina Faso as they commemorate 64 years of independence from brutal colonial domination. This anniversary is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Burkinabé, who fought valiantly against the vile grip of imperialism to reclaim their land and their destiny.
The road to independence was drenched in the blood and sweat of those who refused to be subjugated by the French colonial tyrants, led by revolutionary leaders such as Thomas Sankara. However, even after breaking free from the chains of colonial rule on August 5, 1960, the legacy of exploitation and deliberate destabilisation orchestrated by their former colonisers has sought to keep Burkina Faso in a perpetual state of instability and dependence.
We, therefore, salute the recent wave of revolutionary change sweeping through Burkina Faso led by a courageous young leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, that is unyielding in its mission to reclaim true sovereignty. In a powerful display of defiance, Burkina Faso has severed the toxic ties with the greedy and imperialist France. By nationalising their resources, they are ensuring that the wealth of Burkina Faso serves the people, not foreign profiteers.
This bold move signals the dawn of a new era, where the new generation is rising to obliterate Western influence and assert their rightful control over their nation's future.
As Thomas Sankara, the iconic revolutionary leader of Burkina Faso, once said, "You cannot carry out fundamental change without a certain amount of madness. In this case, it comes from nonconformity, the courage to turn your back on the old formulas, and the courage to invent the future." Today, Burkina Faso is daring to do just that, and the EFF stands in support of this fearless pursuit of self-determination.
Let this anniversary be a clarion call to all oppressed peoples: the time to rise against neo-colonialism and imperialist exploitation is now. Together, we will forge a future where our nations are free, prosperous, and truly independent.
Issued by Leigh-Ann Mathys, National Spokesperson, EFF, 5 August 2024
