Lassané Compaoré has officially assumed the position of General State Controller of the Superior State Audit and Anti-Corruption Authority (ASCE/LC) in Burkina Faso, marking a significant moment in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and strengthen governance.
The swearing-in ceremony, held in Ouagadougou on Thursday, was presided over by Christophe Compaoré, president of ASCE/LC’s steering council, after the new appointee took the oath of office in the presence of the Minister of Justice. This appointment follows the resignation of Philippe Néri Kouthon Nion in May 2023, prompting a rigorous recruitment process to identify his successor.
Christophe Compaoré detailed the selection procedure, emphasizing transparency and adherence to Organic Law No. 082-2015/CNT and the 2021 decree. A total of 53 applicants were considered, with 11 shortlisted for interviews. Three final candidates were presented to President of Faso, who ultimately appointed Compaoré on November 20, 2024.
In his address, Christophe Compaoré highlighted the challenges facing ASCE/LC, especially in light of security concerns and the broader governance landscape in Burkina Faso. He underscored the critical role of oversight bodies in maintaining public trust and urged the new General State Controller to prioritize the protection of public resources, which he described as “sacred.”
Lassané Compaoré, a seasoned expert in public finance with experience at the Court of Auditors, expressed his commitment to reinforcing control and accountability mechanisms within ASCE/LC. He also pledged to foster international cooperation in the recovery of illicit assets, which has become a key issue in the fight against corruption.
The timing of Compaoré’s appointment is significant, coming amid an ongoing trial related to alleged embezzlement at the Ministry of Humanitarian Action. The trial highlights the persistent challenge of corruption within Burkina Faso’s public sector, emphasizing the need for robust oversight.
Compaoré’s five-year mandate is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening good governance and rebuilding public confidence in Burkina Faso’s institutions. His leadership at ASCE/LC will be crucial in ensuring that public resources are effectively managed and that accountability remains at the forefront of the country’s fight against corruption.