Last updated on October 2nd, 2023 at 08:54 am
Sylvia Bongo Ondimba Valentin, the wife of Gabon’s former president Ali Bongo Ondimba, has been charged with money laundering, concealment, forgery, and the use of forgery. She is also accused of conspiring with her son, Noureddine Bongo, to exert undue influence over her husband. As a result, she has been placed under house arrest.
The news of Sylvia Bongo’s charges has sparked mixed reactions among Gabonese citizens. While some believe justice must be served, others question the role of first ladies in the country’s politics.
The Bongo family had been in power for over 55 years, with Ali Bongo succeeding his father, Omar Bongo Ondimba, who ruled for more than four decades. Many people rejoiced in the military coup that toppled Ali Bongo’s government as a liberation from the long-standing “Bongo dynasty.”
Ali Bongo’s presidency faced challenges following a major stroke in 2018. The military removed him from power because they thought his wife and son were manipulating him. While initially placed under house arrest, he has since been released but has chosen to stay in Gabon.
Noureddine Bongo, Sylvia’s son, was among the first to be arrested following the coup. He faced charges of corruption and misappropriation of public funds, leading to his imprisonment.
Legal proceedings have faced criticism, with concerns about secrecy and limited access to legal defense. The case has also raised questions about who was in charge of the nation during Ali Bongo’s illness.
Gabon has faced corruption issues, with allegations of “extra-billing” and retro-commissions involving senior officials and businesses operating in the country.
The investigations into corruption and money laundering are ongoing, with the possibility of more arrests and charges in the future.
The charges against Sylvia Bongo Ondimba Valentin represent a significant development in Gabonese politics. As investigations continue, the nation grapples with the legacy of the “Bongo Dynasty” and seeks to address corruption issues that have plagued the country.
Senegal's ruling Pastef party has won a resounding victory in the legislative elections, taking130 of the 165 seats in parliament,…
Gaza’s hunger crisis is not only statistic, but a set of narratives such as Yasmin Eid, amother of six, who…
The government of Kenya announced that it is looking into the suspected kidnapping ofKizza Besigye, a well-known opposition politician from…
A team of 80 security agents tasked with protecting the electricity grid was ambushed onMonday in Shiroro, Niger State, by…
Cryptocurrency becomes the new thing in Africa. People shift for stable alternatives aftertheir unstable local currencies. Many people believe Donald…
UAE has also distributed 30,000 food baskets to Sudanese refugees in Kiryandongo refugeecamp Uganda to benefit nearly 100,000 affected people.Aid…
This website uses cookies.