Burkina Faso authorities refuse to issue visas to French diplomats

French diplomats are facing visa denials from Burkina Faso authorities amid general tensions in relations between France and the Sahel Alliance, which includes Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, Report informs referring to the Jeune Afrique publication, citing an unnamed source.

"Some French diplomats... are facing visa denials from Burkina Faso authorities... Without entry permission, the new head of a French school is stuck in France and will definitely miss the start of the school year. The same is happening with some gendarmes who were supposed to be sent to Burkina Faso to ensure the safety of the chargé d'affaires," reads the article.

The publication also notes that it is becoming increasingly difficult for French diplomats to gain access to the embassy grounds.

Moreover, supporters of the country's leader Ibrahim Traore have demanded that the French embassy be moved due to its close proximity to the presidential residence, which, in their opinion, is a threat to the country's authorities.