Equatorial Guinea’s President, Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, has appointed Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo as the new Director General of the National Agency for Financial Investigation (ANIF), following the dismissal of Baltasar Ebang Engonga amid a highly publicized scandal.
Engonga was removed from his position on November 4 after an investigation uncovered over 400 explicit videos allegedly involving him with the wives of prominent officials, including ministers, police officers, and even a relative of the President. Local media sources, including Ahora EG and Real Equatorial Guinea, reported that the videos were discovered during an impromptu search linked to suspected financial irregularities.
President Mbasogo’s decree cited Engonga’s “inappropriate family and social conduct” as well as “irregularities committed in the exercise of his functions.” Engonga, a well-known economist, was subsequently arrested, and his alleged actions have sparked public outrage across Equatorial Guinea.
The scandal has led to swift government reforms to curb future misconduct, including the installation of surveillance cameras in government offices and the suspension of any officials involved in similar ethical violations.
Zenón Obiang Obiang Avomo, a seasoned legal professional with a law degree from the National University of Equatorial Guinea (UNGE), now steps in as ANIF’s new director. Avomo has previously held roles as Magistrate Judge in Malabo, Director General of Contract Studies, and Secretary General for multiple ministries, showcasing a career marked by high-profile appointments across the public sector.
In a public statement, authorities emphasized their commitment to uphold ethical standards and announced that stricter oversight measures would be enforced to maintain integrity within the government.
