Equatorial Guinea’s Vice President, Teddy Nguema, has announced plans to equip all state offices with surveillance cameras as part of a broader initiative to enforce public service laws and curb misconduct among government officials.
The announcement, made in a social media post on Tuesday, highlighted the administration’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability. “We have taken this measure to ensure compliance with the law on public officials and to eradicate improper and illicit behavior,” the statement read.
The Vice President stressed that violations captured on camera would be met with harsh consequences, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate actions that undermine the integrity of the public sector.
This surveillance measure comes on the heels of a scandal involving Baltasar Engonga, the Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency.
Engonga was arrested during a fraud investigation after authorities discovered over 400 sex tapes in his possession, reportedly involving the wives of prominent individuals.
The tapes were uncovered during a surprise search of his home and office by financial investigators.
In response to growing concerns over ethical breaches, the Vice President also declared on Monday that any government official found engaging in sexual activity within ministry offices would be immediately suspended.
This directive aligns with the country’s Code of Conduct and Public Ethics Law, reinforcing a strict zero-tolerance approach.
“Responsibility and professionalism must be the pillars of our work as servants of the state,” Nguema stated.
He underscored the importance of ethics and respect within public administration, adding that the government would not allow irresponsible behavior to erode public confidence.
While some officials have welcomed the surveillance policy as a necessary reform, critics, including human rights advocates, have raised concerns about privacy.
Details about the rollout timeline and the extent of surveillance coverage are yet to be disclosed, but authorities have assured that the initiative will adhere to existing legal frameworks designed to strengthen governance and protect public resources.
The government sees the installation of surveillance systems as a crucial move to reinforce accountability, with a resolute stance against corruption and misconduct that aims to restore trust in public institutions.
