Gabon ex-PM questioned over detention
Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze faced his judge for the first time since his April 16 arrest.
Former Gabonese Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze was questioned by an investigating judge in Libreville on Thursday, November 5. Assisted by his lawyer, Me Sarah-Ognyane, Bilie-By-Nze appeared before the judge for the first time since his preventive detention began on April 16. The hearing followed months of requests from his defense team.
The interrogation, which started at 9 a.m., focused on statements previously made by a woman named Baba Ramatou on April 27. Me Sarah-Ognyane stated that her client provided clarifications on the accusations against him and described the proceedings as having gone "very well." The lawyer deemed the audition late but necessary for respecting the defense's rights.
The next steps in the procedure may include a confrontation between Bilie-By-Nze and Baba Ramatou, followed by a moral investigation and defense submissions. The judge will then decide whether to dismiss the case, leading to Bilie-By-Nze's release, or to send him to trial. His lawyer reported that Bilie-By-Nze is in good physical and psychological condition despite his detention.
Why it mattersFormer Prime Minister Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze is undergoing a judicial process that could lead to his release or trial.