The recent dragnet in Gabon continues to shake the country. Three weeks after the putsch which overthrew former President Ali Bongo, his eldest son, Noureddin Bongo Valentin, as well as several members of his cabinet, were indicted and imprisoned for “active corruption”. This affair highlights the fight against corruption which has been plaguing the country for several years.
Noureddin Bongo Valentin, son of deposed President Ali Bongo Ondimba, and some members of his cabinet have been arrested and charged following accusations of corruption. This legal action comes only three weeks after the overthrow of President Ali Bongo in a putsch led by General Brice Oligui Nguema.
The Gabonese authorities also announced the creation of a commission of inquiry responsible for tracking down fraud in public procurement. This decision underlines the desire to fight against the corruption which has plagued the country for many years.
Gabon is often criticized for its high level of corruption. According to the NGO Transparency International, the country is ranked 136th out of 180 in the global ranking of corruption perception. This situation compromises the economic and social development of the country, by diverting resources that could be used to improve public services and reduce inequalities.
This case also highlights the issue of “ill-gotten gains” in Gabon. Investigations carried out in France have shed light on suspicions of misappropriation of public funds allowing the acquisition of a significant real estate asset by the Bongo family. Nine children of Omar Bongo, the former president of Gabon, are notably indicted in France for concealment of embezzlement of public funds.
The fight against corruption therefore represents a major challenge for Gabon. The recent arrests and indictments of high-ranking members of the regime show a desire to fight against this scourge. However, more concrete and lasting measures will be needed to eradicate corruption and restore citizens’ trust in their leaders.
In conclusion, the arrest and indictment of Noureddin Bongo Valentin and several close to his cabinet for active corruption underlines the importance of the fight against corruption in Gabon. However, much remains to be done to eradicate this scourge which hinders the country’s development. The authorities will have to put in place effective and lasting measures to fight corruption and restore citizens’ trust in their leaders.