Burkina Faso: Urgent call for the return of heads of administrative districts to reinforce stability and security
The Minister of Territorial Administration calls for immediate return of Administrative Districts Chiefs to enhance security in Burkina Faso. Heads of Administrative districts in Burkina Faso are urged to promptly return to their posts, as per the directives of the Minister of Territorial Administration, Émile Zerbo.
During a meeting with governors from regions facing security challenges and internal security officials in Ouagadougou on January 23, 2024, the minister emphasized the necessity for administrative district chiefs to permanently reside in their respective areas.
Minister Zerbo informed governors that, to date, 85 administrative district chiefs do not permanently reside in their districts, despite ongoing efforts to improve the security situation.
He urged governors to take appropriate measures to facilitate the immediate return of heads of administrative districts to their positions, in collaboration with defense and security forces.
The return of the head of administrative district is deemed crucial to ensuring the resettlement of populations in their original localities, with the presence of chiefs reassuring residents and coordinating necessary emergency measures.
The minister also underscored the pivotal role of the heads of administrative districts in organizing populations, raising awareness, and contributing to the crisis resolution.
Émile Zerbo called on administrative district chiefs to redouble efforts to combat insecurity, implement reforms, innovate, and modernize work methods.
He emphasized the need to effectively fight against corruption and administrative sluggishness.
Governors are encouraged to fully engage in achieving tangible results on the ground to overcome the country’s current challenges.
The spokesperson for the governors, Issouf Ouédraogo, highlighted that the situation in the Northern region, especially in the Loroum province, remains complex.
However, actions are being taken with the support of law enforcement and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) to reclaim territory and facilitate the mobility of people.
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Olivier Toe
