In Gabon, the imbroglio continues around the trial of Brice Laccruche. The former chief of staff of ex-president Ali Bongo is on trial before the Special Criminal Court for embezzlement of public funds and money laundering relating to accounting services at the presidency. However, his five lawyers decided to boycott the hearings which they considered unbalanced and biased. The judge therefore requested that a court-appointed lawyer be appointed to replace one of them, creating confusion around this trial.
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The next hearing is scheduled for June 12, time is running out. The president of the court had requested that a court-appointed lawyer replace Mr. Anges Kevin Nzigou after the boycott of the hearings. “ Normally, in this scenario, we meet with the magistrates to find a solution. But there, I was given no explanation. Maybe because I’ve always defended Brice Laccruche, maybe because I don’t let myself be intimidated », asks Me Nzigou.
In any case, the latter fears the appointment of a young and inexperienced colleague in a file of several hundred pages and politically sensitive. “ If we name one, it will confirm that we are in a parody of justice. In any case, my colleagues will be united and my client will remain silent », warns the lawyer.
“ Everything will be done in accordance with the law »
The president of the bar was responsible for this appointment. Me Raymond Obame Sima believes that the law is clear. A court-appointed lawyer is required if the accused does not have one or his defense lawyer is absent. However, the president remains cautious. “ I am waiting for explanations from Brice Laccruche’s lawyers in order to clarify their position and see if they are still defending himhe said. If so, they come to the hearings, if they are not there, arrangements must be made. In any case, everything will be done in accordance with the law. »
A meeting with Me Nzigou is also planned for this Friday, June 7 to try to see things more clearly.
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