Will Equatorial Guinea Bail VP Out?

An appeal court in France has fined Equatorial Guinea’s vice-president $33m for using public money to fund his lavish lifestyle. Teodorin Obiang, 50, had challenged his 2017 conviction for embezzlement, but the court gave him a heavier sentence by refusing to suspend the fine. The court upheld a ruling of a lower court to seize his assets in France. He is the son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema, who is Africa’s longest-serving leader. The case against Obiang was triggered by anti-corruption campaign group Transparency International and a similar non-government organization, called Sherpa. Obiang denied the charges, saying his wealth had come from legitimate sources. Between 2000 and 2011 Obiang acquired a collection of luxury assets and properties in France, including the $33m Avenue Foch mansion. He also owned 18 luxury cars, artwork, jewelry, and designer fashion, the court found.

The case against Obiang was triggered by anti-corruption campaign group Transparency International and a similar non-government organization, called Sherpa.Obiang denied the charges, saying his wealth had come from legitimate sources. He was not in court for his trial or appeal. His lawyers previously accused France of “meddling in the affairs of a sovereign state”.

Between 2000 and 2011 Obiang acquired a collection of luxury assets and properties in France, including the €25m Avenue Foch mansion.He also owned 18 luxury cars, artwork, jewelry and designer fashion, the court found.

Source – africa.com