Court blocks opposition leader’s release in Gabon
Breaking news. Opposition figure Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze remains in custody after Gabon’s appeals court in Libreville rejected his procedural nullity request on Tuesday. His legal team argues the detention is unlawful and the case lacks legal merit.
Appeals court upholds detention order
Prominent Gabonese opposition leader Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze, who challenged President Brice Oligui Nguema in the 2025 election, has been held since April 16 on charges related to alleged embezzlement and fraud dating back to 2008. The appeals court’s Tuesday ruling means he will remain in detention as the case proceeds. His lawyers contend the allegations are time-barred and lack substantive legal foundation.
Legal team alleges irregular proceedings
In a statement, lead defense attorney Me Arthur Vercken condemned what he called ‘gross violations’ of Gabonese law and fair trial guarantees. The opposition party Ensemble pour le Gabon maintains Bilie-By-Nze was arrested under ‘harsh conditions’ and denied access to legal counsel during initial detention before being formally charged.
President denies executive interference
When questioned about the case, President Brice Oligui Nguema emphasized the judiciary’s independence, stating in remarks to media that he had ‘no involvement’ in the matter as it was a private legal affair. Bilie-By-Nze served as Prime Minister under former President Ali Bongo and has been a vocal critic of the current administration, particularly regarding social media restrictions and nationality law reforms.
