By Charles Pemu 
MALABO, EQUATORIAL GUINEA – Balthazar Egonga, the former Director-General of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), is currently standing trial on grave charges including embezzlement, illicit enrichment, and abuse of power. Prosecutors in the ongoing case are reportedly seeking an 18-year prison sentence for the former high-ranking official.
Authorities allege that Egonga misappropriated a substantial sum exceeding 1 billion CFA francs, equivalent to approximately 1.67 million US dollars. In addition to the lengthy prison term, the prosecution is also pushing for a severe financial penalty of 910 million CFA francs and a permanent ban from holding public office.
Egonga’s defense team has vehemently contested the charges, claiming they are politically motivated. They have also reportedly challenged the credibility of the evidence presented against their client in court.
The trial, which commenced on July 2, 2025, remains ongoing, and a final verdict has not yet been reached. The proceedings continue to draw significant attention as the nation watches the fate of a formerly influential figure.