Renowned singer Patience Dabany, also known as former First Lady Joséphine Bongo, has filed a lawsuit against eight senior officials of the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG) for her expulsion from the party in early March. Dabany contends that her dismissal led to an “illicit disturbance.” However, during Tuesday’s proceedings at the First Instance Court, the anticipated arguments did not commence.
In Gabon, the legal dispute between Patience Dabany, mother of former President Ali Bongo, and her former party, the PDG, has yet to delve into the crux of the matter. Despite expectations to address the substance of the case, at the outset of the hearing, the PDG executives’ lawyer announced filing a motion to nullify the proceedings. “The First Instance Court had no option but to refer the matter to the Court of Appeal,” stated Attorney Bernard Homa Moussavou.
One of the grounds for nullity cited was “litispendence,” referring to another ongoing lawsuit against the PDG before the Constitutional Court, suggesting that the outcome of this case needed resolution before proceeding in the lower court.
However, during the day, both parties learned that the Constitutional Court had dismissed the complaint, thereby resolving one of the two concurrent procedures. “This is immense joy. I will inform my client immediately,” responded Patience Dabany’s lawyer. Attorney Jean-Paul Moumbembe interpreted this development as the end of litispendence, asserting that the opposing party’s argument lost its relevance.
Nevertheless, according to Moumbembe, the PDG’s appeal seeks to buy time and continue sidelining Patience Dabany, particularly until their upcoming congress. The party awaits the outcome of the appeal while noting that other legal objections have been raised.
The legal tussle highlights the complexity of political and legal dynamics in Gabon as both sides navigate procedural intricacies in pursuit of their objectives. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the political landscape in the country.