Burkina Faso's President Blaise Compaore has announced
his resignation, following violent protests at his attempt to
extend his 27-year rule.
Mr Compaore issued a statement saying the presidency was
now vacant and urging elections within 90 days.
Military chief Gen Honore Traore says he has taken over as
head of state.
On Thursday, protesters angry at Mr Compaore's attempt to
amend the constitution set fire to parliament and
government buildings.
Following the protests, Mr Compaore said he had agreed not
to seek another term, but that he would remain in power
until a transitional government had completed its work in
2015.
However, the opposition continued to demand that he
resign. Its leader, Zephirin Diabre, urged protesters to
occupy public spaces.
There were cheers when an army spokesman told the crowd
gathered in front of army headquarters on Friday that Mr
Compaore had left office, AFP news agency reports.
Mr Compaore's statement, read on television, said there
was now a "power vacuum" and called for "free and
transparent" elections within 90 days.
His whereabouts now remain unclear.
Gen Traore has now said he has taken over.
Late on Thursday, he had announced the creation of the
transitional government, declared the dissolution of
parliament and imposed a night curfew.

http://m.bbc.com/news/world-africa-29851445