Ex-first lady and president's son sentenced to 20 years in prison in Gabon

In Gabon, former First Lady Sylvia Bongo and her son Noureddine Bongo Valentin were sentenced in absentia by a special criminal court to 20 years in prison. They were found guilty of concealment and embezzlement of public funds, money laundering and criminal association. In addition, the court issued an arrest warrant requiring them to pay millions of dollars. The trial lasted for two days, despite the fact that both defendants, who live in London and have French citizenship, refused to participate in it.

Source ABC

Valentin, who served as the coordinator of presidential affairs, was described by witnesses as the main person giving orders in the presidential palace after his father's stroke in 2018. Since the coup d'état that ousted their father, security services have detained both defendants. Gabonese prosecutors presented evidence, including photos of private jets purchased with laundered funds, emphasizing that the Bongos were trying to pass themselves off as victims of a system they had created.

This court verdict symbolizes the end of the 56-year reign of the Bongo dynasty, which began with the rule of Omar Bongo. The victory of the new government in Gabon raises questions about further justice and the fight against corruption in a country where Gabonese citizens have long been yearning for change.