Interior and public security minister Djibril Mama Cisse continued his security tour on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, visiting the cities of Kandi and Parakou.
The minister and his delegation inspected the Special Polyvalent Intervention Group (GSPI) base in Kandi, the departmental civil protection agencies of Alibori and Borgou, the mobile intervention company of the Republican Police in Parakou, and the departmental directorate of interior and public security in Parakou. This tour aims to assess on-the-ground security realities to better refine strategies and plans for public security in Bénin.
“I want my presence here to be understood as my willingness to listen. I came to hear you…” the minister said as he opened discussions with police officers of all ranks and categories gathered at the Republican Police Special Intervention Group base in Kandi. In both Parakou and Kandi, he encouraged open dialogue so that everyone could express the challenges they face—challenges that, if resolved by the hierarchy and the government, could improve the effectiveness of operations and the efficiency of resources.
Among the issues raised were career management, promotions, duration of postings in high-risk areas, lack of motivation, absence or insufficiency of risk premiums, shortage of specialists, and insufficient human resources. Also mentioned were problems related to the lack of GSM network coverage in some localities, sabotage of communication towers, and inadequate protection at certain police stations.
In response to these concerns, the director general of the Republican Police, the secretary general of the ministry, and other delegation members explained ongoing projects to address some of the issues, current reflections, and potential solutions under consideration, particularly those concerning officers’ careers.
Minister Djibril Mama Cisse, on behalf of the government and its head, commended the security forces for their bravery and spirit of sacrifice, emphasizing that thanks to them, Beninese citizens can go about their daily lives in peace and tranquility. “It is because of you that the Republic stands strong,” he stated.
“I did not come to make promises. But we must meet the challenges,” he continued. Djibril Mama Cisse called on all components of the public security forces to fully commit. Resolving the issues raised will be the government’s priority so that Bénin remains secure and continues its development without hindrance.
