Following the arrest of Baltasar Engonga, the Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency in Equatorial Guinea, over allegations of recording over 400 sex tapes involving the wives of prominent individuals, Vice President Teddy Nguema has announced plans to install surveillance cameras in all state office buildings.
This sweeping measure aims to uphold public service laws and address misconduct among officials, reinforcing transparency and ethical compliance.
News Central previously reported Engonga’s arrest, prompted by a fraud investigation. During an unannounced search of his home and office, officials discovered multiple CDs revealing recordings involving married women.
The CCTV installation initiative was unveiled on Tuesday in a post on X, with the administration emphasising a strong commitment to accountability. “We have taken this measure to ensure compliance with the law on public officials and to eradicate improper and illicit behaviour,” the post read.
The new policy, intended to deter acts that could undermine public trust, warns that any violations caught on camera will result in severe consequences. “We will not admit any fault that denigrates the integrity of our administration, and those who engage in these practices will face drastic measures,” it continued.
While government leaders argue that this move is essential for promoting transparency, the policy has prompted mixed reactions among public employees and human rights advocates. While some see it as a step toward reform, others have raised concerns about potential privacy implications. Details on the full rollout and specific areas of surveillance remain to be clarified, though the government assures that it aligns with legal frameworks to enhance governance and protect public resources.
The Vice President highlighted that installing surveillance in state offices is a clear stance against corruption and misconduct, marking a significant shift towards an environment of transparency and public trust.
In addition, the Vice President announced on Monday that any officials involved in sexual conduct within ministry offices would be immediately suspended, citing violations of the Code of Conduct and Public Ethics Law. He emphasised a zero-tolerance policy toward behaviour that undermines public service integrity.
“Today we will proceed with the immediate suspension of all officials who have had sexual relations in the offices of the country’s ministries,” he stated.
“The government will take severe measures against these acts since they constitute a flagrant violation of the Code of Conduct and the Public Ethics Law. This action is a decisive step in our policy of zero tolerance towards behaviours that undermine the integrity of the public service,” the Vice President continued.
He concluded by stressing that ethics and professionalism must underpin public service, vowing not to allow irresponsible actions to erode public trust.
