Reckless Acrobats and Anarchic Parades in Traffic: A Growing Concern in Sya

The city of Sya is facing a growing concern with reckless acrobats and anarchic parades in traffic, making life unpleasant for its citizens. The President of the special delegation (PDS) of the commune of Bobo-Dioulasso, Laurent K Kontogom, has warned those who take part in traffic acrobatics, stating that they “endanger their lives as well as the lives of pedestrians, residents, and other road users.”

Such practices are prohibited and punished by the texts in force, and Kontogom has given a warning to the perpetrators to stop these practices. If not, they will be dealt with firmly, without prejudice to any legal action taken. This warning also applies to tricycle drivers, who are known for their unorthodox behavior and lack of discipline in traffic.

Wedding Parades: A Source of Concern

Wedding parades are also a source of concern, especially on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. In the euphoria of the celebration, participants often believe they have priority over everything and everyone in circulation. However, this can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.

According to law No. 022/97/AN of October 21, 1997, relating to freedom of demonstrations on public roads, any procession, parade, gathering of people, and demonstration on public roads and in public places is subject to a previous statement addressed to the head of the administrative area or local authority. This declaration must be made 72 working hours before the event.

Acrobatics on public roads, including in wedding processions, are prohibited by law. Any offender is liable to a fine of 500,000 FCFA to 1,000,000 FCFA and/or imprisonment from 2 to 5 years.

A Lesson from Bamako

In Bamako, the President of the special delegation of the district has also addressed the causes of wedding processions. He reminded his constituents that “wedding celebrations are private events” and should “in no way be obstacles to the freedom of movement and tranquility of other citizens.” To limit the damage, “marriage processions are now limited to 6 vehicles.”

This decision serves as a reminder that wedding celebrations should not come at the expense of others’ safety and freedom of movement.