Saye Zerbo
- Saye Zerbo: A Life of Military and Political Leadership
- Education and Military Career
- Independence and Political Ascent
- Coup and Presidency
- Challenges and Overthrow
- Later Years and Death
Saye Zerbo: A Life of Military and Political Leadership
Born on August 27, 1932, in the western Sorou province of Upper Volta (now Burkina Faso), Saye Zerbo came from a Muslim family.
Education and Military Career
Zerbo received his education in Mali and Senegal, before joining the French colonial army. He attended the Saint-Cyr military academy and served as a paratrooper in Indochina and Algeria.
Independence and Political Ascent
After Upper Volta gained independence in 1961, Zerbo joined the armed forces. He held various posts, including Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1974-1976 and commanded the capital's regiment and military intelligence.
Coup and Presidency
In 1980, Zerbo overthrew President Sangoulé Lamizana and assumed the roles of President and Prime Minister. The 1977 Constitution was abolished, and power was transferred to a Military Council.
Challenges and Overthrow
Zerbo faced opposition from trade unions and was ultimately overthrown and arrested in 1982 by Jean-Baptiste Ouédraogo. In 1983, Ouédraogo was overthrown by Thomas Sankara. In 1984, Zerbo and Lamizana were tried by a People's Tribunal, with Zerbo sentenced to 15 years in prison.
Later Years and Death
While in prison, Zerbo converted to Christianity. He was released in August 1985 and became an advisor to Blaise Compaoré, who had overthrown Sankara. Zerbo received a state pension as a former head of state and retired army colonel until his death on September 19, 2013. A four-day mourning period was declared in Burkina Faso following his demise.
