Equatorial Guinea’s President Appoints New Anti-Corruption Chief Following Major Scandal in Government
In a swift move aimed at restoring public trust and addressing recent controversies, President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea has appointed Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new Director General of the National Agency for Financial Investigation.
Avomo’s appointment follows the dismissal of his predecessor, Baltasar Ebang Engonga, amid a sensational scandal that has sent shockwaves through the country.
Engonga, who had served as the head of the agency responsible for tackling financial crime, was dismissed following allegations of “irregularities committed in the exercise of his functions.”
According to local media outlet Real Equatorial Guinea, President Mbasogo issued a decree on November 4 outlining that Engonga’s removal was due not only to professional misconduct but also to behavior deemed socially and ethically inappropriate for a high-ranking public official.
Reports from Equatorial Guinean news outlet Ahora EG reveal the extent of the scandal: authorities uncovered more than 400 explicit tapes involving Engonga and multiple women, some of whom are related to high-profile figures, including government ministers, police officers, and even the sister of the President.
These tapes, reportedly filmed with the women’s consent, were discovered during a raid on Engonga’s office and have since leaked online, fueling public outrage and prompting a government crackdown.
In response to the scandal, the government has taken immediate and stringent steps to prevent future incidents of ethical misconduct. Among the measures are the installation of surveillance cameras in government offices across the country, a move intended to deter unethical behavior and reinforce accountability among public officials.
Additionally, the administration has issued suspensions for other officials implicated in similar misconduct, sending a strong message that such breaches of public trust will not be tolerated.
The appointment of Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo represents a fresh start for the National Agency for Financial Investigation. A seasoned legal professional with a background in government service, Avomo holds a law degree from the National University of Equatorial Guinea (UNGE).
His experience includes roles such as Magistrate Judge in Malabo, Director General of Contract Studies and State Markets at the Ministry of Finance and Budgets, Secretary General of the Ministry of Finance, Economy, and Planning, and Secretary General of Mines, Industry, and Energy. His track record has made him a trusted figure capable of leading the agency through its current challenges and ensuring its focus on integrity and accountability.
This scandal underscores the growing challenges in upholding ethical standards within Equatorial Guinea’s public sector. As the National Agency for Financial Investigation undergoes this transition, President Mbasogo’s administration has also signaled a commitment to reinforcing ethical practices across all levels of government. By implementing oversight measures like surveillance, the government aims to create an environment of transparency and professionalism.
The fallout from this incident highlights the importance of accountability and ethical conduct in public service. In a country where corruption and misconduct have long been subjects of concern, these new developments could signify a turning point, with Avomo’s leadership potentially steering the agency towards a culture of greater integrity and responsibility.
While the scandal has undoubtedly damaged the image of Equatorial Guinea’s government, the actions taken in its aftermath may ultimately strengthen public confidence and reinforce the values of honesty and accountability in the nation’s institutions.
In the wake of such a significant breach of trust, Equatorial Guinea’s path forward will likely be watched closely by both citizens and the international community, as the country works to address the underlying issues exposed by the scandal and ensure its public institutions adhere to higher standards of ethical conduct.