Viral political personality and prominent figure, Baltasar Ebang Engonga, has reappeared in a Malabo court as his highly publicized corruption trial gains further attention both locally and internationally. This appearance comes after Engonga endured ten months of pre-trial detention at the notorious Black Beach Prison, a facility infamous for its harsh conditions and high-profile inmates.
The former director-general of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF) was initially arrested in September 2024, following a series of investigations into financial mismanagement and corruption scandals that shook the country’s political elite. His arrest marked a significant moment in Equatorial Guinea’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts, which many critics say have been selective and politically motivated.
Engonga is facing multiple serious charges, including large-scale embezzlement of public funds, unlawful enrichment, and abuse of power. Prosecutors allege that he orchestrated a complex and systematic scheme to divert substantial state resources for his personal use and to benefit his close associates. Several other former senior government officials are implicated alongside him in what authorities describe as an elaborate web of financial misconduct.
During Monday’s session, prosecutors presented detailed evidence outlining what they characterized as a sophisticated plan to siphon public funds through fraudulent contracts, shell companies, and hidden offshore accounts. They further alleged that these illicit activities were coordinated by Engonga during his leadership of the Directorate General of Insurance and Reinsurance (DGAR) from 2015 to 2020. The scheme reportedly involved other high-ranking officials who now also face charges.
Moreover, prosecutors have proposed a heavy financial penalty, including a fine exceeding 910 million CFA francs (equivalent to about 1.5 million USD). Additionally, they are advocating for Engonga to be permanently barred from holding any public office throughout the duration of his sentence, which would effectively end his political and administrative career.
The trial, which has attracted widespread media coverage and public interest, is expected to span at least three days. This week, defense attorneys are set to deliver their arguments, challenging the prosecution’s claims and the credibility of the evidence presented so far.
Engonga’s defense team has forcefully rejected all allegations, labeling the proceedings as politically motivated and part of a broader campaign to silence dissenting voices within Equatorial Guinea’s elite. They argue that the charges are based on manipulated evidence and unreliable testimonies, aimed at eliminating Engonga as a potential political rival.
As the proceedings continue, many observers are closely watching to see whether the trial will mark a genuine commitment to justice and anti-corruption or if it will be perceived as a politically charged spectacle. The final verdict, expected in the coming days, is anticipated to have major implications for the country's political landscape and anti-corruption efforts moving forward.
The outcome of this high-profile trial will not only determine Engonga’s future but could also set a precedent for how corruption cases involving top officials are handled in Equatorial Guinea.