1 Nov 2014

Division over who rules Burkina Faso

9:32 pm on 1 November 2014

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.

Burkina Faso

People celebrate in the capital Ouagadougou after Burkina Faso's embattled President Blaise Compaore announced he was stepping down. Photo: AFP

The presidential guard's second in command, Colonel Isaac Zida, said he had assumed power as head of state, the BBC reported.

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 yesterday.

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.