Equatorial Guinea has appointed Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new Director General of the National Agency for Financial Investigation, replacing Baltasar Ebang Engonga following his dismissal amid misconduct allegations. The scandal led to the discovery of over 400 incriminating videos, sparking public outrage and a government directive for surveillance installation in state offices. Avomo brings significant legal and financial expertise to his new role, aiming to restore integrity within the agency.
In a significant governmental reshuffle, 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). This change comes in the wake of the dismissal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga, who was embroiled in a scandal due to allegations of misconduct that resulted in his removal, as detailed in Decree No. 118/2024, effective November 4. The investigation was particularly damning, revealing over 400 incriminating videos in Engonga’s office featuring relatives and spouses of various high-ranking officials, including ministers and law enforcement personnel. The emergence of this scandal incited widespread public anger, prompting the Equatorial Guinean government to act decisively. Among these measures, the government has implemented a mandate for the installation of surveillance cameras across all state offices, a tactic aimed at monitoring official behavior to prevent future instances of misconduct. Furthermore, additional officials linked to the scandal have faced suspension, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ethical governance and public accountability. Stepping into his new position, Zenón Obiang Avomo is poised to leverage his extensive background in law and finance. A graduate of the National University of Equatorial Guinea, Avomo’s career includes notable roles such as Magistrate Judge in Malabo and Director General of Contract Studies and State Markets at the Ministry of Finance. His experience ideally positions him to lead ANIF at a critical juncture for public trust and governmental integrity in Equatorial Guinea.
This article discusses the recent leadership changes within Equatorial Guinea’s National Agency for Financial Investigation (ANIF), particularly focusing on the abrupt removal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga following serious allegations of misconduct. The subsequent appointment of Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo, a seasoned legal practitioner, reflects the government’s urgent efforts to restore integrity and public confidence following a deeply troubling incident that surfaced in the financial oversight agency. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges of governance, ethics, and public trust in political institutions within Equatorial Guinea.
In conclusion, the appointment of Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new Director General of ANIF comes as a direct response to the scandal involving his predecessor, Baltasar Ebang Engonga, whose alleged misconduct triggered significant public backlash. The government’s swift measures, including increased surveillance and the suspension of implicated officials, demonstrate a renewed commitment to ethical standards and transparency. Avomo’s extensive experience positions him well to lead the agency during this critical transition, enhancing efforts to combat corruption and restore public confidence in governmental institutions.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
