Sangoulé Lamizana

president of Burkina Faso

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June 30, 2026

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Sangoulé Lamizana was a military leader and politician who served as the head of state of Burkina Faso (then Upper Volta) from 1966 to 1980. He came to power through a military coup that ousted the elected government of Maurice Yaméogo. Lamizana's rule was characterized by military intervention during times of crisis. His time in power ended in November 1980 when another coup, led by Col. Saye Zerbo, took place following strikes by workers, teachers, and civil servants.1

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Burkina Faso
Independence of Burkina Faso
) Sangoulé Lamizana, ousted the elected government of Maurice Yaméogo. Lamizana dominated the country’s politics until November 1980, when a series of strikes launched by workers, teachers, and civil servants led to another coup, this time headed by Col. Saye Zerbo.
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) Sangoulé Lamizana, ousted the elected government of Maurice Yaméogo. Lamizana dominated the country’s politics until November 1980, when a series of strikes launched by workers, teachers, and civil servants led to another coup, this time headed by Col. Saye Zerbo.
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