Equatorial Guinea’s vice president, Teodoro Obiang Mangue, has announced strict measures against civil servants engaging in sexual acts at work after explicit videos allegedly involving high-ranking official Baltasar Ebang Engonga went viral. The controversial videos reportedly show Engonga, head of the National Financial Investigation Agency, in sexual encounters with various women, including wives of other prominent officials. Engonga, also a relative of the president, has not publicly commented on the scandal.
Severe Penalties and New Surveillance Measures
Vice President Obiang has warned that any government employees caught engaging in sexual acts on office premises will face “severe measures,” including suspension. Describing such behavior as a “flagrant violation of the code of conduct,” Obiang emphasized the need for professional integrity within the country’s public offices.
In response to the scandal, Obiang ordered surveillance cameras to be installed in courts and ministries, aiming to deter “indecent and illicit acts” within government facilities. His office released a statement noting that the explicit videos had “denigrated the image of the country” and that an investigation would be launched to hold responsible parties accountable.
Internet Restrictions and Public Health Concerns Amid Scandal
The videos in question were leaked shortly after Engonga’s arrest on unrelated corruption charges, according to state-run TVGE. Following the scandal’s eruption on social media, Vice President Obiang ordered telecom companies to curb the spread of explicit content, resulting in severe disruptions in internet traffic across the country.
Equatorial Guinea’s chief prosecutor, Anatolio Nzang Nguema, added a new layer to the controversy, stating that if Engonga is found to have a sexually transmitted infection, he may face prosecution for “offenses against public health.” The scandal has not only shaken the nation but also sparked debates on office conduct, privacy, and public health.
Obiang’s crackdown underscores a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct in government offices, with the vice president vowing to uphold the country’s reputation amid an increasingly scrutinized political landscape.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.