A split has emerged
within Burkina Faso's armed forces over who is leading the country
following the resignation of President Blaise Campaore after 27 years in
power.
The presidential guard's second in command, Colonel Isaac Zida, says he has assumed power as head of state.
Earlier, army chief General Honore Traore said he had taken over.
Crowds danced and cheered in the capital Ouagadougou after Mr Compaore's resignation was announced on Friday.
It came a day after protesters angry at his attempt to amend
the constitution and extend his 27-year hold on the presidency set fire
to parliament and government buildings.
Speaking on Saturday, Col Zida said Gen Traore's claim to be head of state was now "obsolete".
"I now assume... the responsibilities of head of the
transition and of head of state to assure the continuation of the state"
and a "smooth democratic transition", said Col Zida in a televised
address quoted by AFP news agency.
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| People celebrate after news of the resignation |
And Reuters quoted Col Zida, in a statement read out on local
radio, as saying: "I assume the functions of head of state and I call
on (West African regional bloc) Ecowas and the international community
to demonstrate their understanding and support the new
authorities."Friday saw Mr Compaore issue a statement saying the
presidency was now vacant, and urging elections within 90 days.
His whereabouts are now unclear.
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