Burkina Faso’s president declares state of emergency

Burkina Faso’s President Blaise Compaoré declared a state of emergency and dissolved the government on Thursday, as he pledged to open talks with the opposition in an effort to defuse protests sparked by his attempt to extend his presidency.

Compaoré announced the state of emergency and the government’s dissolution in a statement that was read by a presenter on Radio Omega FM.

“A state of emergency is declared across the national territory. The chief of the armed forces is in charge of implementing this decision which enters into effect today,” the statement said.