Vincent de Paul Massassa, the former Minister of Petroleum and Gas of Gabon, is currently in detention and has been interrogated for at least two days at the headquarters of the General Directorate of Counter-Interference and Military Security, commonly known as “B2”. This arrest follows the recent coup d’état that led to the seizure of power by Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema on September 4th.
Vincent de Paul Massassa, who held a key position in the government of Alain-Claude Billie By Nze, is one of the few members of the former government who did not attend the inauguration ceremony of Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. His noticeable absence during this event has raised questions and speculation about his status and possible involvement in the events that led to the overthrow of the previous regime.
The detention of the former Minister of Petroleum and Gas has fueled discussions in Gabon and elsewhere, with some wondering if his arrest is related to the ongoing political changes in the country. The Gabonese authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the reasons for his arrest or the charges that may be brought against him.
This situation raises concerns about respect for human rights and the legality of actions taken by the new Gabonese authorities. Human rights defenders and international organizations are closely monitoring this case to ensure that Vincent de Paul Massassa’s rights are respected and that any charges against him are subject to a fair and transparent process.
The arrest of the former Minister of Petroleum of Gabon comes at a tense political time as the country undergoes a period of political transition following the coup d’état that ousted former President Ali Bongo. Recent events raise many questions about the political future of Gabon and the stability of the region.