Sissili: A ceremony to pay tribute and farewell to the National Gendarmerie was presided over by the Secretary General of the Sissili province, Baowinsida Bingo, in Leo on Monday. This exceptional flag-raising ceremony marked the disengagement of the National Gendarmerie from the city.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event took place in the presence of a delegation from the institution's general staff, led by Chief Warrant Officer Jean-Baptiste Zaksongo. The ceremony, attended by constituted bodies, provincial directors, heads of services, and representatives of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), held symbolic significance.
The event paid tribute to the Gendarmerie elements for their withdrawal from Leo, aligning with the spirit of law n°32-2003/AN. In his address, the provincial secretary general, representing the High Commissioner and the populace, commended the Gendarmerie for their professionalism, dedication, and spirit of sacrifice during their tenure in Leo. He underscored the synergy between the Gendarmerie, combat forces, and the administration in ensuring the safety of people and property.
The Secretary General remarked that while the withdrawal marks a milestone, service to the nation continues, and the people of Leo will remember the Gendarmerie as a committed republican force. Chief Warrant Officer Jean-Baptiste Zaksongo thanked the Sissili population for their collaboration, urging them to continue this dynamic, noting that personal safety starts with the individual.
Noufou Belem, the acting provincial director of the National Police, reassured the community about ongoing collaboration between defense and security forces. He emphasized that the departure is not a goodbye, as the National Police remains committed to maintaining and enhancing the security level achieved together.
The ceremony was characterized by camaraderie among military and paramilitary representatives, concluding with exchanges of pleasantries and best wishes for the departing officers' future missions. It is noteworthy that the territorial brigade of the National Gendarmerie had been established in Leo since 1962.