Victor Bissekoin, the governor of the Haut-Oubangui region, discussed the security situation and the functioning of public administration in the area in an interview published on May 26, 2026. The governor's remarks provided insights into the challenges faced by the local government and its efforts to maintain order. The interview detailed the ongoing struggle to ensure stability and effective governance across the Haut-Oubangui region.
Governor's Stark Assessment
Victor Bissekoin, the governor of Haut-Oubangui, characterized the security situation in the region as a form of "hide-and-seek" in a recent interview. Governor Bissekoin indicated that despite efforts, security forces, including the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) and their allies, face persistent challenges from armed groups operating across the territory. He noted that these groups frequently evade direct confrontation by dispersing into remote areas, only to reappear once patrols have moved on.
The governor stated that this dynamic complicates the establishment of lasting peace and stability, making it difficult for the state to fully assert its authority in certain localities. He emphasized the continuous need for vigilance and adaptable strategies to counter the fluid tactics employed by non-state actors. The ongoing struggle restricts the full deployment of public services and economic activities in affected zones. Governor Bissekoin reiterated the administration's commitment to restoring order and facilitating the return of normalcy for the population of Haut-Oubangui.
Challenges in Public Administration
Governor Victor Bissekoin of Haut-Oubangui outlined the difficulties in establishing effective public administration across the region, attributing many of these challenges to the prevailing security landscape. The fluid nature of armed group activity, which he described as "hide-and-seek," directly impacts the state's capacity to deliver services and maintain a consistent presence in all localities within Haut-Oubangui.
According to Governor Bissekoin, the intermittent displacement and re-emergence of these groups mean that administrative efforts are frequently disrupted. This instability complicates the deployment of civil servants, the functioning of local government offices, and the implementation of development projects. He indicated that ensuring reliable public services, from education to healthcare, remains a significant hurdle due to the unpredictable security environment. The governor emphasized that the administration in Haut-Oubangui continues to prioritize strategies aimed at stabilizing the region to facilitate broader governmental functions.
The 'Hide-and-Seek' Metaphor
Governor Victor Bissekoin's description of security as "hide-and-seek" succinctly captures the dynamic between state forces and armed groups in Haut-Oubangui. This metaphor notes the elusive nature of the armed elements, which avoid direct engagement with the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) and their allies. Instead, these groups disperse into remote areas when confronted, only to re-emerge once patrols have moved elsewhere.
The governor's characterization shows the difficulty in establishing a consistent state presence and lasting stability. The continual ebb and flow of armed group activity prevents the full assertion of governmental authority across the region. This pattern complicates efforts to deliver public services and implement development initiatives, as any progress can be quickly undermined by the re-appearance of these groups. Bissekoin's use of the metaphor communicates the persistent challenge faced by authorities in maintaining order within Haut-Oubangui.
