Prosecutors in Equatorial Guinea have called for an 18-year prison sentence for Baltasar Ebang Engonga, the former Director-General of the country’s Insurance and Reinsurance Authority (DGAR), as a high-profile corruption trial unfolds in the capital.
Ebang Engonga, known by the nickname “Bello,” led the DGAR between 2015 and 2020 and now stands accused of embezzling state funds, accumulating illicit wealth, and abusing his position.
The prosecution is recommending 8 years for embezzlement, 4 years and 5 months for illicit enrichment, and a further 6 years and 1 day for abuse of office.
Additionally, he may face a financial penalty exceeding 910 million CFA francs and be barred from holding public office during the sentence.
Prosecutors allege that Ebang Engonga ran a scheme within DGAR to siphon off public funds, aided by several other senior figures in the institution.
Co-defendants include Carmelo Julio Matogo Ndong, Ireneo Mangue Monsuy Afana, and Florentina Iganga Iñandji, who face similar charges related to financial misconduct.
The trial has captivated public attention, not only because of the scope of the alleged corruption but also due to controversial video evidence uncovered during the investigation.
Authorities reportedly found explicit footage on Ebang Engonga’s personal devices in late 2024, allegedly showing inappropriate conduct in his office, some involving individuals tied to senior political figures.
The video leak sparked outrage and further intensified scrutiny of the case.
Ebang Engonga comes from a powerful political lineage. He is the son of Baltasar Engonga Edjo’o, current president of CEMAC, and nephew of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.
His trial is widely seen as a pivotal test of the country’s commitment to fighting corruption at the highest levels.
The court proceedings began on Monday and are expected to run for three days, with the defense set to present its argument next.
Ebang Engonga’s legal team has rejected the charges as politically motivated, challenging both the validity and admissibility of the evidence presented. A verdict is anticipated in the coming days.
