The Movement for Gabon’s Greatness (MGG), led by Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome, has publicly called for the unconditional release of Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nzé, Chairman of the opposition coalition ‘Ensemble Pour le Gabon’ (EPG). Bilie-By-Nzé has been held at the Central Prison of Libreville since April 2026 on alleged embezzlement charges involving five million CFA francs.
The MGG’s plea emphasizes the urgent need to uphold justice and safeguard democratic gains painstakingly achieved by over a hundred political formations, several of which now face possible dissolution under the recently enacted political party law.
Preserving justice and democratic principles
« My stance transcends defending an individual; it embodies the expectations I once held for Gabon’s political class, civil society, and media when I myself was unlawfully detained for nearly seven months at the Central Prison of Libreville », declared Christian Mermance N’nang Nsome, MGG’s President. Despite his declared support for President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguéma, he rejects being labeled a blind follower, often derogatorily referred to as a ‘kounabéliste’.
Through this principled stand, N’nang Nsome urges Gabonese magistrates to fulfill their duty by delivering justice—only justice—in Bilie-By-Nzé’s case, much as they did during his own detention.
A call for accountability in Gabon’s justice system
« My imprisonment inflicted severe financial and emotional hardship on my family and me. Since my release, my health has deteriorated significantly. Yet, those who wield power seem oblivious to the human cost of their actions », N’nang Nsome reflected sorrowfully.
Undeterred by potential backlash or ostracism in Gabon’s increasingly restrictive political climate—where free speech is increasingly equated with public disorder—he refuses to remain silent. « Yesterday it was me; today it is Bilie-By-Nzé. Who will it be tomorrow? » he warned, underscoring the urgency of protecting civil liberties.
Elliott Ana Merveille