Equatorial Guinea’s government has dismissed Baltasar Ebang Engonga as the head of ANIF following the leak of explicit videos involving multiple women. This decision, ordered by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, highlights serious concerns regarding ethical behavior among officials. In a parallel response, Vice President Teodoro Mangue has promised stricter actions against sexual misconduct in government, emphasizing the need for integrity and accountability in public office.
On November 8, 2023, the government of Equatorial Guinea formally dismissed Baltasar Ebang Engonga from his position as Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF). This decision was prompted by the emergence of social media videos allegedly depicting Engonga in sexual activities with numerous women. Prior to his dismissal, Engonga faced suspension following the viral dissemination of these videos, which purportedly involved over 400 women, some said to be associated with influential figures in the country. Despite attempts by the BBC to obtain a comment from Engonga regarding these allegations, no response has been forthcoming. President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo was responsible for ordering Engonga’s removal, which was subsequently formalized by a decree signed by his great-uncle, President Mbasogo himself. Engonga, aged 54, is a seasoned government official with familial connections to the current leadership; he is the son of Baltasar Engonga Edjo, head of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC). In the wake of this scandal, Vice President Teodoro Mangue has vowed to implement stringent measures against government officials engaging in sexual misconduct, highlighting a broader commitment to uphold ethical standards within the administration. The dissemination of the aforementioned videos intensified following Engonga’s recent arrest on unconnected corruption charges, inciting a strong reaction from the government. In response to the scandal, Vice President Mangue announced on social media that any government officials caught participating in inappropriate sexual conduct in public service offices would face suspension. He expressed determination to uphold public ethics and to treat such behavior as a serious lapse in professional conduct. First Lady Constancia Mangue Obiang publicly expressed her disappointment regarding the incident, labeling it as “embarrassing” and a significant blow to the reputation of Equatorial Guinean women globally. This sentiment was echoed during her meeting with Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue, responsible for coordinating administrative matters, where she emphasized the damaging impact of the situation on the nation’s image. Ultimately, while the acts captured in the viral content may seem consensual, concerns about potential public health implications have been raised, and the government is prepared to take appropriate action.
The dismissal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga from a high-ranking position within the Equatorial Guinean government stems from a scandal involving explicit videos that have circulated widely on social media. The incident raises significant concerns regarding ethical conduct and public image in a country where governance and accountability issues are often under scrutiny. The intervention by government officials reflects a reactive stance to uphold a semblance of morality and professionalism amidst ongoing corruption allegations, illustrating the complexities faced by leaders in addressing misconduct within their ranks.
In summary, the removal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga from his position as Director General of ANIF marks a critical response from the Equatorial Guinean government to allegations of personal misconduct that have caught public attention. The situation underscores a larger strategy by government leaders, particularly the Vice President, to enforce stringent ethical standards and deter similar conduct among officials. The ramifications of this scandal are considered damaging not only to the individual involved but to the image of public service in Equatorial Guinea as well.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
