Brice Laccruche Alihanga, a key figure in Gabonese politics and former chief of staff to ex-president Ali Bongo Ondimba, was released on the night of Friday October 20, after spending four years behind bars. Convicted in 2019 for embezzlement of public funds, forgery and use of forgery, Alihanga was granted conditional release. This news has sparked numerous reactions in Gabon and is relaunching debates on corruption and justice in the country.
This release comes as Gabon is going through a period of political transition, following Ali Bongo’s stroke in 2018. Brice Laccruche Alihanga was considered the country’s strong man during this period and his arrest in December 2019 had created a shock wave within the Gabonese government.
In an interview with RFI, Alihanga spoke about the reasons for his conviction and his disgrace. He claims to have opposed the actions of the former First Lady and her son, denouncing their chaotic financial management. He also reportedly suggested on several occasions to Ali Bongo to take a step back and rest, given his fragile state of health. Finally, he would have vehemently resisted the ambitions of the presidential family to take power in Gabon.
Although the release of Brice Laccruche Alihanga was greeted with relief by some of his supporters, it also raised questions and criticism. Some believe that the Gabonese justice system was exploited in this affair, while others point the finger at the close links between the country’s political and economic elites.
Now free, Alihanga is focusing on his health and prefers to remain discreet about his future plans. He recognizes that his priority is to receive appropriate medical care to regain good health. His release also revives speculation about the political future of Gabon and the possible repercussions of his return to the political scene.
In conclusion, the release of Brice Laccruche Alihanga after four years in prison is a major event which gives rise to numerous debates and questions in Gabon. This case highlights the issues of corruption and justice in the country, and raises questions about the fairness and independence of the Gabonese judicial system. What happens next remains uncertain, but it is clear that this release will mark a turning point in Gabonese politics.