Y esterday, Pascal Ogowé Siffon, the former Minister of Tourism, was apprehended by B2 intelligence services near his residence, shortly after officially submitting his resignation from the interim government.

This arrest follows serious suspicions of the embezzlement of public funds totaling more than 10 billion CFA francs.

Investigators have uncovered significant financial irregularities during his tenure, revealing a sophisticated and organized system of corruption. This scandal serves as a wake-up call regarding the imperative need to strengthen the fight against corruption within public management.

The Fight Against Corruption: A National Urgency The Siffon case sadly illustrates how current oversight and transparency mechanisms remain insufficient. To prevent such abuses, several measures must be implemented without delay:

• Strengthening independent audit and financial control bodies, with unrestricted access to documents and procedures. • Strict application of judicial sanctions against financial malpractice, without political immunity. • Promotion of open public data (open data) to hold officials at all levels accountable. • Continuous training and awareness for public officials regarding ethics and the integrity of resource management. • Creation of a secure platform for citizens and civil servants to report cases of corruption.

This case must not be treated as a mere news item but as a catalyst for a profound reform of institutional practices. The credibility of the government, the effectiveness of public policies, and citizen trust depend on it.