Balé: Former National Assembly Speaker Bongnéssan Arsène YE Honored with Grand Traditional Funeral

Balé: The grand traditional funeral marking the end of the family mourning period for former National Assembly Speaker Bongnéssan Arsène YE took place from May 10 to 11, 2025, in Bagassi. The event featured funeral rites, traditional dances from various communities, and heartfelt testimonies from friends, former colleagues, political companions, and family members about the life of the late statesman. According to Burkina Information Agency, a year after the passing of Bongnéssan Arsène YE, the traditional funeral honored him, gathering numerous dignitaries, former colleagues, village communities, and his family in his native village of Bagassi. The village elders emphasized that while the funeral marks the end of the mourning period, it doesn't erase the family's grief. However, it offers repose for the deceased and allows them to join their ancestors. All necessary funeral rituals and sacrifices were conducted in keeping with customs and traditions, privately within the patriarch's courtyard. The memory o f the deceased was celebrated through troop performances and personal tributes at his private home, where he now rests. Delegations from various regions attended, witnessing mask performances by his Senufo friends from Gnakoro in the waterfalls region, along with Dozo troupes, traditional dances, and masks from local communities. Representatives from different socio-cultural and religious groups in the Boucle du Mouhoun region shared testimonies of Dr. Bongnessan YE's dedication to his region and community. In his tribute, Inoussa Coulibaly, the head of the Dozos of the village of Nanou, highlighted Dr. YE's contributions to building health and educational facilities in the region, enhancing its profile, and his lasting impact on the country's political landscape. The turnout of regional and international figures at his funeral underscored his social and political influence. Former political comrades and leaders from the Congress for Democracy and Progress (CDP) honored the memory of Bongnéssan Arsène YE, p raising him as a great statesman, charismatic advisor, principled leader, and unifier devoted to national service. A CDP delegation, led by its first vice-president Boubacar Sanon, conveyed the party's gratitude and acknowledgment on behalf of President Eddie Kombéogo, recognizing YE's significant contributions to the political party. Boubacar Sanon expressed that even a year after his passing, the party continues to feel the absence of YE, and all members will remain indebted to him. The various tributes included prayers for the deceased's soul, meditation at his tomb, and condolences presented to his family. National and local administrative authorities demonstrated the nation's support for the family and the Bagassi community. Family spokesperson Henri Ye expressed gratitude to those who showed compassion and solidarity during the mourning period and the funeral through various acts, stating, "We were touched by your show of affection and solidarity." As a reminder, Colonel Major Bongnéssan Arsène YE wa s born on October 10, 1957, and passed away on January 30, 2024. He served as President of the National Assembly and Minister of State.