The Libreville court delivered its verdict on February 17th in the case involving notary Maître Inès Leslie Mouyaga . Found guilty of fraud in real estate transactions, the public official received a six-month suspended prison sentence and a fine of 13 million FCFA in damages.

A well-rehearsed scheme

The case, which concerns a plot of land located in the Gabonese capital, highlights fraudulent practices within the notary's office. According to the evidence presented at the hearing, the defendant allegedly:

1. Deceived the buyer : By claiming, with the help of two collaborators, that the land was free of any encumbrance (lien), when the real owner was not even informed of the sale.
2. Circumvented financial rules : The prosecution noted a cash receipt, made outside the official accounting of the firm.

Although absent during the deliberations, Maître Mouyaga avoids immediate incarceration thanks to her status as a first-time offender , allowing her to benefit from a suspended sentence.

A verdict under the banner of "A Great Cleanup"

This conviction does not appear to be an isolated incident. It is part of a broader context of profound restructuring of the Gabonese judicial system.

1. The effect of the High Council of the Judiciary

In December 2025, an extraordinary meeting of the High Council of the Judiciary dramatically restructured the judicial hierarchy. These massive reshuffles and promotions are perceived as a sign of the Transitional authorities' desire to strengthen discipline and dismantle networks of influence.

2. The end of protections?

Some observers point out that this conviction marks a turning point. In the past, Mr. Mouyaga allegedly benefited from influential support within the court, systematically slowing down the proceedings against him. The outcome of this trial suggests that these "shields" are no longer effective.

Towards a restored justice system?

This verdict is interpreted by many as a strong signal sent by the Head of State, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema . The stated objective is clear: to restore the credibility of institutions and guarantee impartial justice.

While this decision is welcomed, the challenge remains significant: to transform this breakthrough into a lasting dynamic to definitively anchor fairness at the heart of Gabonese courts.