Burkina Faso: Lassané Compaoré takes the helm of ASCE/LC to step up the fight against corruption
Lassané Compaoré officially assumed office as the General State Controller of the Superior State Audit and Anti-Corruption Authority (ASCE/LC) on Thursday, December 12, 2024, in Ouagadougou. The ceremony was presided over by Christophe Compaoré, president of the institution’s steering council, after the new appointee took the oath of office before the Minister of Justice.
Lassané Compaoré’s appointment follows the resignation of Philippe Néri Kouthon Nion in May 2023. Christophe Compaoré recalled the rigorous recruitment process that led to this appointment, in line with Organic Law No. 082-2015/CNT and the 2021 decree. Out of 53 applications received, 11 candidates were shortlisted for interviews. Ultimately, three names were proposed to the President of Faso, who appointed Lassané Compaoré on November 20, 2024.
In his speech, Christophe Compaoré highlighted the challenges faced by ASCE/LC, especially in the context of insecurity, where oversight bodies play a key role in the fight against terrorism. He urged the new General State Controller to prioritize the protection of public resources, described as “sacred,” and to maintain transparency in his actions.
Lassané Compaoré, an expert in public finances who has worked at the Court of Auditors, committed to strengthening control and sanction mechanisms. He also pledged to promote international cooperation for the recovery of illicit assets.
The installation of the new controller comes at a time when a trial is underway concerning embezzlement of funds at the Ministry of Humanitarian Action, underscoring the urgent need to intensify efforts to eradicate corruption. Lassané Compaoré’s five-year mandate is expected to be crucial in consolidating good governance in Burkina Faso and restoring citizens’ trust in public institutions.