Gabonese movement calls for former prime minister bilie-by-nze’s release

The Movement for the Grandeur of Gabon (MGG), identifying itself as both a steadfast supporter of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguéma and a dedicated advocate for the Gabonese populace, has issued a powerful declaration. In a statement released this Wednesday, the MGG, led by its President Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome, vehemently called for the immediate liberation of Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nzé. Bilie-By-Nzé, who presides over the opposition party Ensemble Pour le Gabon (EPG), has been detained and incarcerated at Libreville Central Prison since April 2026, facing allegations of fraud involving a sum of five (5) million CFA Francs.

This urgent plea from the MGG and its President stems from a profound conviction regarding the imperative to uphold justice and safeguard the democratic advancements secured through immense sacrifices. These hard-won gains, championed by 102 political factions, are now reportedly jeopardized, with some facing potential dissolution under the recently enacted law governing political parties, as asserted by the movement.

“My initiative is not about defending an individual, but rather about enacting the very principles I had hoped to see from Gabon’s political class, civil society, and press when I myself was unlawfully and unfairly held captive at Libreville Central Prison for nearly seven months,” stated Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome, President of the MGG. He firmly declared his refusal to adopt the stance of a ‘yes-man’ or ‘kounabéliste,’ despite his public endorsement of the head of state.

Driven by this clear perspective and unwavering nationalist commitment, and trusting in the integrity of Gabonese justice, Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome implores the magistrates to conscientiously fulfill their duties in the Bilie-By-Nzé affair. He calls upon them to apply the law precisely and impartially, just as they did during his own period of incarceration.

“My imprisonment inflicted terrible material losses upon my life and the lives of those dear to me. In fact, I have endured a very fragile state of health since my release. Yet, this appears to be the least of concerns for those who believe they can arbitrarily control the lives of others, without remorse or consequence,” he lamented, reflecting on the profound impact of his past experience.

Despite anticipating potential ostracism and adverse reactions in a volatile political climate, where freedom of expression and opinion is increasingly equated with disrupting public order, the MGG President remains resolute. He refuses to be silenced, fearing complicity before both divine judgment and the annals of history. “Yesterday, it was me; today, it is Bilie-By-Nzé. Whose turn will it be tomorrow?” Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome cautioned, highlighting the cyclical nature of such injustices.