Equatorial Guinea has appointed a new head for its anti-graft agency, marking a significant step in the country’s fight against corruption.
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 removal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga due to a scandal involving alleged misconduct.
Reports indicate that Engonga’s dismissal was prompted by accusations of irregularities in his official duties and inappropriate personal conduct, as outlined in Decree No. 118/2024, issued on November 4.
The investigation revealed over 400 video recordings in Engonga’s office, featuring the wives and relatives of senior officials, including ministers and police officers, which incited significant public outrage and led to immediate governmental action.
In response, the Equatorial Guinean government has mandated the installation of surveillance cameras in all state offices to monitor officials’ behavior and prevent future misconduct, while also suspending other implicated officials to reinforce ethical standards and restore public trust.
Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo, who assumes leadership at ANIF, possesses a robust background in law and finance, having graduated from the National University of Equatorial Guinea and served in various significant roles, including Magistrate Judge in Malabo and Director General of Contract Studies and State Markets at the Ministry of Finance.
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