LÉO, SISSILI — In a significant outreach effort, a delegation of government ministers led by the Minister of State, Bassolma Bazié, met with local populations in Sissili province on Thursday to encourage more active civilian involvement in security operations against terrorism.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the gathering aimed to bolster the ranks of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) and enhance cooperation between civilians and military forces in combating terrorism. The delegation, which also included Minister of Justice Edasso Rodrigue Bayala and Minister in charge of Regional Cooperation Stella Eldine Kabré/Kaboré, facilitated discussions on the current national security situation and gathered input on improving strategies.

During the meeting, residents expressed their views and offered suggestions on national security measures, which the ministers committed to relaying to the head of state. Key issues raised by the community included calls for the reinstatement of the death penalty, increased identity checks, and stronger intelligence efforts. Additionally, there was a significant push for involving traditional leaders in resolving social conflicts as part of a broader strategy to stabilize the region.

This initiative underscores the government's strategy to deepen civilian-military cooperation and empower local communities to actively participate in safeguarding their regions, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing the persistent security challenges in Burkina Faso.