Equatorial Guinea Appoints New Anti-Graft Agency Director Amid Scandal

Equatorial Guinea has appointed Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new head of the National Agency for Financial Investigation, replacing Baltasar Ebang Engonga who was dismissed due to serious misconduct allegations. Engonga’s removal followed the discovery of inappropriate conduct, including over 400 video recordings in his office involving relatives of officials, which sparked public outrage and led to government interventions aimed at enhancing accountability in state offices.

Equatorial Guinea’s President, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, has appointed Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new Director General of the National Agency for Financial Investigation (ANIF), following the dismissal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga amid serious allegations of misconduct. Engonga’s removal was officially detailed in Decree No. 118/2024, issued on November 4, which cited significant irregularities in his conduct and behavior unworthy of a public servant. The investigation into Engonga’s tenure revealed over 400 video recordings found in his office, reportedly involving the wives and relatives of high-ranking officials, such as ministers and police officers, provoking substantial public outrage and necessitating a rapid governmental response. In an effort to prevent similar incidents in the future, the Equatorial Guinean government has mandated the installation of surveillance cameras throughout all state offices. Furthermore, several officials implicated in the scandal have been suspended, signaling the administration’s commitment to fostering ethical standards and restoring public confidence. Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo, the successor at ANIF, arrives with a robust background in law and finance, having previously served in significant positions, including Magistrate Judge and Director General of Contract Studies and State Markets in the Ministry of Finance. His extensive educational credentials include a graduate degree from the National University of Equatorial Guinea.

The recent scandals surrounding the National Agency for Financial Investigation in Equatorial Guinea underscore the challenges faced by the government in maintaining integrity and public trust. The appointment of a new director comes in the wake of serious misconduct allegations against the former leader, highlighting ongoing systemic issues regarding governance and oversight in the country. The government’s swift action in response to the scandal signifies an attempt to reinforce ethical standards and accountability among public officials.

The appointment of Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new Director General of the National Agency for Financial Investigation marks a pivotal moment for Equatorial Guinea’s efforts to restore integrity within its financial oversight agency. The swift dismissal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga and the measures taken to enhance monitoring of public officials reflect a concerted effort by the government to uphold ethical conduct and regain public trust amidst significant public backlash.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com