The legal turmoil continues around the trial of Brice Laccruche. The former Chief of Staff to ex-President Ali Bongo is being tried before the Special Criminal Court for embezzlement of public funds and money laundering related to accounting services at the presidency.
However, his five lawyers have decided to boycott the hearings, deeming them biased and unfair. Consequently, the judge has requested the appointment of a court-appointed lawyer to replace one of them, leading to confusion surrounding the trial.
The next hearing is scheduled for June 12, adding urgency to the situation. The court president had requested that a court-appointed lawyer replace Me Anges Kevin Nzigou following the boycott. “Typically, in such cases, we meet with the judges to find a solution. But here, I was given no explanation. Perhaps because I have always defended Brice Laccruche, perhaps because I do not allow myself to be intimidated,” questions Me Nzigou.
Me Nzigou fears the appointment of a young and inexperienced colleague to handle a case involving several hundred pages and significant political sensitivity. “If one is appointed, it will confirm that we are witnessing a mockery of justice. In any case, my colleagues will stand in solidarity, and my client will remain silent,” warns the lawyer.
The bar association head has been tasked with this appointment. Me Raymond Obame Sima states that the law is clear: a court-appointed lawyer is required if the accused does not have one or if their defense attorney is absent. Nonetheless, he remains cautious. “I am waiting for explanations from Brice Laccruche’s lawyers to clarify their position and see if they are still defending him,” he says. “If so, they must attend the hearings; if they do not, appropriate measures will be taken. In any case, everything will be done in accordance with the law.”
A meeting with Me Nzigou is scheduled for Friday, June 7, to try to clarify the situation further.
This ongoing confusion underscores the complexities and high stakes involved in the trial of Brice Laccruche, reflecting broader tensions within Gabon’s legal and political landscape.