A new chapter begins for the National Press Authority (ANP). During the official handover ceremony held this Wednesday at the institution's headquarters, the new president, Bakari Sanogo, officially took office, displaying a clear intention: to continue the work of his predecessor, Samba Koné, in order to propel the regulatory body to new heights.

Placing continuity at the heart of the action

In front of a gathering of guests, Mr. Sanogo paid a vibrant tribute to the outgoing president, whom he described as a "strong media personality." He assured them that the work accomplished by the latter would serve as a compass for his own administration.

“The focus will be constantly on this benchmark (…) to guide the institution towards higher heights. (…) It will be a benchmark to go further, to do more,” he said, while humorously warning his predecessor that he would regularly seek his advice: “Mr. Samba Koné, you will not be resting.”

The new leader also took the opportunity to express his deep gratitude to the President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara, for his appointment. He also thanked the Minister of Communication, Amadou Coulibaly, for his support, before paying posthumous tribute to the former Prime Minister, Amadou Gon Coulibaly.

The results of six years of reforms

For his part, Samba Koné reviewed his six-year term, marked by a total commitment to a more professional, responsible, and economically viable press. Among his main achievements, he highlighted:

1. The rise of the ANP Academy and the organization of masterclasses.
2. The establishment of National Press Week .
3. The creation of a citizen application allowing the public to actively participate in media regulation.

Passing the torch with confidence

Although he believes that "much remains to be done," the outgoing president expressed full confidence in his successor's ability to meet future challenges. "I am firmly convinced that the new team, under your leadership, will be able to build upon these achievements and initiate new momentum," Mr. Koné stated as he officially handed over the institution's files.

The ceremony took place under the supervision of Anoma Kanié Léandre, Inspector General of the Ministry of Communication, thus officially marking the beginning of this new era for the regulation of the Ivorian press.