S everal statements from Gabonese citizens present an alarmist and unilateral view of recent events in Gabon, insisting on a supposed continuity of corruption practices—identical, or even worse—under the regime of Oligui Nguema. This interpretation deserves to be nuanced.

1. A Significant Political Break : The trial initiated against Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo Valentin and their accomplices marks an unprecedented break in Gabonese political history. Never before has a power dared to bring such a serious public accusation against the inner circles of a democratically installed family, demonstrating a real willingness to root out corruption networks. This dynamic testifies to a new mastery of judicial institutions and increased independence, where previously nothing genuinely moved or changed.

2. A Complex but Committing Transition : Admittedly, the denounced practices do not disappear instantly, especially when they are long-established and rely on deep institutional complicity. However, accusing the current governance of reproducing exactly the same patterns without change is simplistic and prevents an assessment of the real progress being made, particularly regarding transparency and strengthened control of public finances. The implementation of disciplinary measures against some of the protagonists mentioned in the issued notices stems from a desire for reform, which the trial embodies.

3. Increased Surveillance of the Banking System : Some critics severely target BGFIBANK without citing the other banking institutions involved, deliberately ignoring that there are more than seven banks in the country. They also fail to emphasize that control procedures, particularly anti-money laundering measures, are being gradually put in place under new supervision. The safeguards are not perfect, but the opening of investigations and the public exposure of dysfunctions reflect a change in the management of public financial institutions.

4. The Political Message of the Trial : The international dissemination of the trial gives Gabon the image of a State that now refuses impunity and opacity. This strong signal should be interpreted as a first step towards a strengthened rule of law, and not as a mere spectacle of political vengeance.

5. Criticisms of Appointments and Alliances : Reproaching the President of the Republic, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, for appointing collaborators without a "worthy" perceived background does not take into account the political realities of a security transition where cohesion and loyalty are also essential criteria. The promised change cannot be accomplished without temporary tactical concessions.

Ultimately, far from constituting a simple continuity of past practices, the trial and the accompanying measures reveal a new willingness to establish an independent justice system in Gabon. Flaws and entrenched interests still exist, but it would be imprudent and counterproductive to judge this process exclusively by the past without acknowledging the complexity and progress underway. The real challenge now remains to anchor these first steps in a lasting and participatory reform.