Burkina Faso operates as a unitary state, characterized by a centralized system of government where power is concentrated at the national level. This system is enshrined in the country's Constitution, adopted in 1991 (and amended several times since then). The Constitution defines Burkina Faso as a democratic, unitary, and secular state, with the system of government based on the separation of powers. This constitution was supplemented by a Transitional Charter adopted in October 2022 and replaced on March 27, 2026, by the Charter of the Revolution. This charter enshrines the Progressive People’s Revolution (Révolution progressiste populaire - RPP) and eliminates the “political parties and groups” component within the legislative assembly. The Executive power is exercised by the President of Faso, who serves as the Head of State and the Prime Minister, the Head of Government which is part of the Executive power. The Legislative power is exercised by the ‘Assemblée Legislative du Peuple’ (ALP), comprising 71 deputies selected among regional leaders, civil society representatives, and prominent figures designated by the Head of State. 

The Constitution  defines the respective areas of competence of law and regulations. Legislative authority is vested in Parliament, which votes laws. However, the right to initiate legislation is shared concurrently by Parliament (ALP), the Government, and the people (through petitions).

Pursuant to article 115 of the Constitution, the relationship between the National Assembly (ALP) and the Government is also reflected through:

• motion of censure;
• motion of confidence;
• the dissolution of the National Assembly;
• parliamentary debate procedures.

Burkina Faso is organized into local governments (Art. 143 of the Constitution). Local governments are governed by a new law: Law N°024-ALT of December 30, 2025, establishing the General Code of Local Governments in Burkina Faso. Under Article 23 of this law, local governments consist of municipalities and regions. The local government organizes and coordinates local development (art.24).