Published on 14/01/2025
Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré has banned colonial-style wigs for judges, striking a blow against remnants of British and French influence in the judiciary.
Announcing the decision, President Traoré stressed the importance of breaking away from colonial traditions and embracing practices that reflect Burkina Faso’s cultural heritage. The ban is part of his broader push to foster national identity and assert the country’s sovereignty.
Colonial-era wigs have long been symbols of foreign influence in African legal systems. Burkina Faso now joins other nations on the continent in discarding such relics in favour of indigenous traditions.
This decision underscores a growing trend across Africa, where countries are revisiting colonial legacies and opting for systems that resonate with their people. It’s a symbolic step that speaks to a larger cultural renaissance sweeping the continent.
