Libreville, Gabon – A court in Gabon sentenced former First Lady Sylvia Bongo Ondimba and the son of ousted President Noureddine Bongo to 20 years in prison.
This comes after a trial that lasted only two days, according to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).
The verdict was issued in absentia, as neither of them attended the court sessions.
They described the charges against them as a “legal farce”.
It aims to settle political scores after the president was overthrown in a military coup in August 2023.
Embezzlement of funds
Gabonese authorities accuse members of the Bongo family of embezzling public funds and large-scale money laundering.
This was during the Gabonese president’s rule, which lasted for more than 14 years.
He succeeded his late father, Omar Bongo, who ruled the country for four decades.
Reports indicate that the family amassed huge fortunes both inside and outside the country.
This sparked a wave of popular anger that contributed to the downfall of the previous regime.
Returning the looted funds
Since Bongo’s ouster, the ruling military council has intensified its campaign against corruption.
He stressed that the trials aim to “return the looted funds to the Gabonese people.”
Human rights organizations argue that the trial lacks international judicial standards,
This comes in the context of consolidating the new authority.
The new rulings are expected to spark further controversy in the Gabonese political scene.
Especially in light of international calls to ensure fair and transparent trials,
This is far removed from any vengeful or political motives.
