The Movement for Gabon’s Greatness (MGG), led by its President Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome, has issued a strong call for the unconditional release of Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nzé, former Prime Minister and current President of the opposition coalition Ensemble Pour le Gabon (EPG). Bilie-By-Nzé has been detained at the Libreville Central Prison since April 2026, facing allegations of fraud involving five million CFA francs.
Preserving justice and democratic principles
In its public statement, the MGG emphasized the urgency of Bilie-By-Nzé’s release to uphold Gabon’s judicial integrity and safeguard the democratic progress achieved after years of political struggle. The coalition also warned that 102 political parties—some of which now risk dissolution under the new political party law—could face further repression.
Rejecting political conformity
Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome, a vocal supporter of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguéma, made it clear that his plea is not about defending an individual but about ensuring justice is served. He drew a parallel between his own seven-month detention and Bilie-By-Nzé’s case, stressing that magistrates must act independently and rule based solely on the law.
«My detention left deep scars, both materially and emotionally, and my health has never fully recovered. Yet those in power continue to act as if human lives are disposable, without remorse or consequences,» he shared, reflecting on his past ordeal.
A fight against systemic impunity
Despite the risks—including potential backlash in a climate where free speech is increasingly criminalized—the MGG President remains resolute. He warned that the current repression sets a dangerous precedent, asking, «If it was me yesterday, and Bilie-By-Nzé today, who will be next?»
