Le Balai Citoyen (The Citizen’s Broom)
Le Balai Citoyen (“The Citizen’s Broom”) is a grassroots civic movement founded in August 2013 by reggae artist Sams’K Le Jah and rapper Serge Bambara (Smockey). Drawing inspiration from Sankara-era organizing and movements like Y’en a Marre in Senegal, Balai Citoyen operates through decentralized “Cibal Clubs” throughout Burkina Faso and “Cibal Embassies” abroad.
The movement played a central role in the October 2014 popular uprising that toppled President Blaise Compaoré after 27 years in power. Through mass mobilization, street protests, and the “Hands Off My Constitution” campaign, hundreds of thousands filled Ouagadougou’s streets, ultimately forcing Compaoré’s resignation.
Programs include civic education workshops, citizen participation in governance, youth employability initiatives, electoral monitoring, and community service projects. The headquarters in Wayalghin hosts conferences, debates on issues like monetary sovereignty (CFA franc), and coordination meetings for the Cibal network.
Currently facing severe repression under the military junta — organizer Rasmane Zinaba was kidnapped from his home in February 2024 and remains detained. Won Amnesty International’s Ambassador of Conscience Award in 2016.
Motto: “Notre nombre est notre force! Ensemble, on n’est jamais seul!” (Our number is our strength! Together, we’re never alone!)
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