William Ndjapou was removed from his post following public remarks criticizing the arrest of civil society leaders.
President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has dismissed William Freddy Kalmame Ndjapou, his legal advisor, according to a decree signed on Monday, October 19. This decision partially revokes a December 2021 decree that had appointed several individuals to the presidency. The dismissal specifically targets Ndjapou, who advised on legal reform and electoral process monitoring.
The action follows Ndjapou's public criticism on October 15 of the arrest of civil society leaders who had organized a "dead city" protest on October 12 against rising fuel prices. Ndjapou stated that the arrests were irregular and did not originate from the president, suggesting others around the head of state were responsible. He called for the leaders' release.
Five civil society leaders, including Elysée Nguémalé of the Observatory for Democratic Governance in Central Africa, were arrested by police as they prepared to hold a press conference. Their arrests occurred shortly after the "dead city" demonstration, which saw significant public participation. Other figures within the presidential camp, such as Special Advisor Fidèle Gouandjika and Minister Roméo Gribingui, had also voiced criticism of the arrests.
Why it mattersWilliam Ndjapou is affected because his criticism of government actions led to his dismissal from his presidential advisory role.
Read in the ASJ desk →