Xavier Ndong Ndong detained over death threats and hate speech.
Libreville, January 3, 2026 – The arrest this Saturday of Junior Xavier Ndong Ndong, President of the National Council of Rites and Traditions of Gabon (CNRTG), by the Directorate General of Research (DGR), reveals the gravity of an unacceptable downward spiral marked by threats.
A former advisor to the Presidency under Ali Bongo and a close associate of the former Chief of Staff, Maixant Accrombessi Nkani, Mr. Xavier Ndong Ndong issued death threats against any individual who might defame his association. Furthermore, he made highly subversive remarks against the Batéké and Nzébi ethnic groups, in addition to leveling accusations against the Batéké people for allegedly plotting a coup d'état to overthrow President Oligui Nguéma with the support of countries such as Benin, Nigeria, and Ghana.
Context of the Arrest: This detention follows his inflammatory statement made on December 25, 2025, in which he issued death threats against anyone spreading "false information" about him or his association. Accused of involvement in kidnappings and ritual crimes—allegations he firmly denies—Ndong Ndong denounced a defamation campaign and reaffirmed that such practices are contrary to Gabon’s ancestral values.
Threats and Ethnic Hatred: It is worth noting that during this statement, he had already threatened journalist Jonas Moulenda, vowing to make an "example" out of him. He also called for the reopening of ritual crime cases, amidst a national climate marked by the fear of a resurgence of these barbaric acts. The authorities now appear to be taking action in response to these remarks, which have been deemed excessive and inflammatory.
During his statement on December 25, 2025, Ndong Ndong issued death threats against anyone who dared to defame him or his association, which has been accused—notably by journalist Jonas Moulenda—of involvement in ritual crimes; allegations he firmly rejects.
Undermining National Unity Such tribalist delusions are a betrayal of republican values and a poison to national cohesion. They reopen the wounds of a past marked by ethnic conflict, weaken unity in the face of shared challenges, and exploit socio-economic frustrations to fuel hatred. Freedom of speech cannot be used as an excuse for incitement to hatred or death threats—punishable crimes that expose innocent people to public vindictiveness.
