Violence fears force early polls closure in Burkina Faso

Dozens of polling stations in Burkina Faso closed early on Sunday due to security threats, according to the head of the electoral commission.

The country has suffered from an escalating jihadist conflict. 

Hundreds of thousands of people were already unable to cast their ballots because Islamist violence has rendered parts of the north and east too dangerous.

Analysts expect a tight contest, as President Roch Kaboré seeks a second five-year term. 

Mr Kaboré's opponents accuse him of failing to stop the jihadist attacks, which have killed more than 2,000 people this year.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: EPA