Gabon: Prosecutor Eddy Narcisse Minang dismissed after Bongo family trial

A major shake-up is underway in Gabon’s judiciary. Eddy Narcisse Minang, the prosecutor general who played a prominent role in the trial involving members of former President Ali Bongo’s family, has been dismissed from the judiciary. The current public prosecutor, Bruno Obiang Mve, has also been handed a lengthy suspension. The sanctions were announced on August 25, following a disciplinary hearing before Gabon’s Superior Council of the Judiciary.

Eddy Narcisse Minang Removed From the Judiciary

According to several observers, Minang’s dismissal was not entirely unexpected. The senior magistrate, who was trained in France, reportedly fell out of favour with the authorities after representing the prosecution during the high-profile trial involving members of the Bongo family in November.

Two months ago, Minang had already been suspended from his position as prosecutor general by Gabon’s justice minister. He was accused of financial misconduct and judicial interference. According to a source close to the case cited by RFI, the former prosecutor general has 15 days to appeal the decision before the Council of State.

Public Prosecutor Suspended for 12 Months

The disciplinary proceedings also resulted in a major sanction against Bruno Obiang Mve, Gabon’s current public prosecutor. He has been suspended for 12 months, with the suspension affecting his salary. Eight other magistrates also appeared before the disciplinary council on Tuesday, August 25. They received lesser sanctions.

A Major First for Gabon’s Judiciary

The disciplinary decisions against senior prosecutors represent an unprecedented development for Gabon’s judicial system. The removal of Eddy Narcisse Minang and the suspension of Bruno Obiang Mve come at a time when Gabon’s new authorities are seeking to reshape state institutions following the end of the Bongo era. The sanctions are therefore likely to attract close attention, particularly because of Minang’s prominent role in the proceedings against members of the former presidential family.