The Ouagadougou High Court has once again adjourned proceedings in the high-profile embezzlement case involving former Minister of Humanitarian Action Laure Zongo/Hien and several co-defendants, rescheduling the hearing for February 23, 2026.
The decision was taken during a session held on February 9, with the court citing procedural, health, and logistical constraints to ensure proper administration of justice.
The case centers on the alleged misappropriation of more than 3 billion CFA francs earmarked for assistance to internally displaced persons.
Eight defendants are standing trial on charges including embezzlement of public funds, complicity, illicit enrichment, and money laundering, among them former senior finance official Camille Yaké Yé.
The postponement followed a joint request by the parties, after the defense reported the ill health of one accused and noted that counsel involved in the case were simultaneously engaged in proceedings before the Koupéla High Court.
The case relates to the management of a special social protection account used to finance food purchases for populations displaced by insecurity and forms part of broader anti-corruption efforts by Burkinabe authorities to clarify the alleged diversion of resources intended for vulnerable communities.
