Popular expectations are high after Burkina Faso poll

Significance

The emergence of a clear victor will go a long way towards restoring political stability in a country marked by turbulence since a popular uprising ousted the autocratic government of Blaise Compaore more than a year earlier. However, the new government now faces popular expectations that are strikingly different from the past.

Impacts

• The government's electoral mandate will help the country regain its formerly constructive role in regional affairs.
• Growing regional security threats from neighbouring Mali and Niger will be high priorities for the new administration.
• The visibly democratic and transparent nature of the election may inspire pro-democracy activists elsewhere in sub-Saharan Africa.