Former First Lady of Gabon, Sylvia Bongo Ondimba , and her son, Noureddin Bongo Valentin , will stand trial next Monday, November 10 , before the Special Criminal Court in Libreville . They are being prosecuted for embezzlement of public funds, money laundering , as well as for irregular concessions and other alleged economic offenses.

A trial in absentia

The defendants, currently residing in London, are not expected to appear in person at the hearing. Their lawyers have indicated that they will not travel to Gabon for the trial. According to the Attorney General at the Court of Cassation, Eddy Minang , this absence does not invalidate the case: the Court will try the defendants in absentia , in accordance with the Gabonese Code of Criminal Procedure.

A sensitive political context

This trial comes two years after the 2023 coup that ended the presidency of Ali Bongo Ondimba. The situation has amplified the political and media tension surrounding the case. Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo's lawyers denounce a "show trial" and highlight potential violations of the rights of the defense, while public opinion is closely following the case.

The stakes of the trial

Beyond the financial accusations, this trial is seen as a pivotal moment for the Gabonese justice system in handling cases involving figures close to the former regime. The verdicts could have significant political and social consequences in a country still grappling with the post-coup transition.