In a poignant message published on Through this message, she shared her distress in the face of what she describes as a “hostage situation”, while expressing the hope that the year 2025 will be that of the reunification of her family.
A call beyond the intimate. If the tone of this statement is personal, its impact resonates well beyond the family circle. The mention of threats, abuse, and humiliation suffered by her husband takes place in a context where questions about the management of the transition in Gabon persist. Nourredin Bongo Valentin, former Coordinator of Presidential Affairs under the regime of Ali Bongo Ondimba, is a controversial figure, accused of financial embezzlement as part of Operation “Scorpion”. Since his arrest in 2023, his fate remains unclear, fueling speculation and divisions.
The quest for transparency and justice
Léa Bongo Valentin insists on her commitment to “write, call, testify” until her husband’s release. This declaration calls out the need for the Gabonese transition to strengthen the rule of law and ensure fair trials. The management of ongoing affairs, particularly those relating to the fight against corruption, remains a key test for the transitional authorities.
As Gabon approaches crucial electoral deadlines in 2025, cases like that of Nourredin Bongo Valentin highlight the importance of a transparent judicial process. Léa Bongo Valentin’s appeal highlights the tensions between the quest for justice and the imperatives of national reconciliation, essential issues to establish the legitimacy of the current transition.
