In a move aimed at strengthening public service integrity, Equatorial Guinea’s Vice President, Teddy Nguema, has announced the installation of surveillance cameras in all state offices. This decision follows the recent scandal involving Baltasar Engonga, Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF), who was arrested for allegedly recording over 400 sex tapes involving the wives of prominent citizens. The tapes were uncovered during a fraud investigation, which led to an impromptu search of Engonga’s house and office, revealing hundreds of CDs documenting his illicit activities.
Nguema confirmed the new surveillance initiative in a post on Tuesday, describing it as essential for ensuring compliance with public service laws and deterring misconduct. “We have taken this measure to ensure compliance with the law on public officials and to eradicate improper and illicit behaviour,” Nguema’s message stated. The government has declared a zero-tolerance policy for actions that compromise the integrity of public service, warning that violations captured on camera will lead to strict consequences.
This policy is part of a broader crackdown on unethical practices within government offices. On Monday, Nguema announced the immediate suspension of any officials found engaging in sexual relations within ministry offices, a violation of the Code of Conduct and Public Ethics Law. The Vice President emphasized that professionalism and accountability are core to the administration’s values, stating, “Ethics and respect are fundamental in our administration, and we will not allow irresponsible behaviour to compromise public trust.”
The surveillance camera installation has received mixed reactions. While some officials see it as a necessary step for reform, others and some human rights advocates raise privacy concerns. The full scope and timeline for the rollout remain unspecified, though the government has assured that it aligns with existing legal frameworks aimed at enhancing transparency and governance.
Nguema emphasized that these measures symbolize the administration’s commitment to rebuilding trust within the public sector. “Responsibility and professionalism must be the pillars of our work as servants of the state,” he stated, underscoring a firm stand against corruption and misconduct in Equatorial Guinea’s public institutions.
