Arrests continue in Gabon after the coup d’état which overthrew the power of Ali Bongo. This time, it was the former Minister of Water and Forests, Lee White, who was arrested by the military. This information was confirmed by a judicial source and the National Union of Water and Forestry Professionals (Synapef).
Lee White, who was very close to former president Ali Bongo, will have to answer charges of complicity in selling off forests. According to Synapef, it would have granted two logging permits covering an area well above the ceiling set by the Gabonese Forest Code. In fact, the minister would have granted a permit over an area of 57,000 hectares and another for 97,000 hectares, while the authorized ceiling is 50,000 hectares. Additionally, he would also be prosecuted for embezzlement.
The arrest of Lee White is part of a series of arrests of former ministers in Ali Bongo’s government since the coup d’état. Vincent de Paul Massassa, the former Minister of Oil, as well as Léon Armel Bounda Balonzi, former Minister of Public Works, were also presented to the prosecution to answer various accusations.
These arrests demonstrate the desire of the new authorities to shed light on possible embezzlement that may have taken place during the reign of Ali Bongo. They also illustrate the desire to fight corruption and restore the rule of law in the country.
It is important to note that this information is still provisional and that a thorough investigation must be carried out to determine the guilt of those arrested. The presumption of innocence must be respected pending the conclusions of this investigation.
This situation echoes other cases of legal proceedings and arrests of former leaders in different countries, which demonstrate a growing desire to be held accountable and to fight corruption at all levels. This trend is supported by citizens who demand more transparency and integrity from their governments.
The outcome of this case will make it possible to assess the actions taken by the new authorities to restore the confidence of the Gabonese people in their government and their judicial system. Expectations are high and it is essential that these measures are taken with rigor and impartiality to ensure justice and promote transparent and accountable governance.
In conclusion, the arrests of former ministers of Ali Bongo’s power continue in Gabon. Lee White, former Minister of Water and Forests, was arrested and faces charges of complicity in selling off forests and embezzlement. This series of arrests demonstrates the desire of the new authorities to fight corruption and restore the rule of law in the country. The course of events will make it possible to judge the effectiveness of these measures in restoring the confidence of the Gabonese people in their government.