72-Year-Old Michel Kafando Named As Interim President

Following negotiations between political and military leaders in Burkina Faso, a former diplomat, Michel Kafando has been chosen as the country's interim president.

He was appointed after the signing of a charter which specified the details of the year-long transition which would precede the conduct of democratic elections in the country.

Kafando was appointed after negotiations by a special panel which consisted of religious, military, political, civil and traditional leaders.

The interim president will not be eligible to contest in the elections which will be held next year.

Burkina Faso’s former President, Blaise Compaore was forced to step down on October 31 after an attempt to extend his 27-year tenure led to unrest and a military takeover.