THEODORE NGUEMA

Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, born on June 5, 1942, is an Equatoguinean politician and former military officer. He has been the president of Equatorial Guinea since August 3, 1979, making him the second-longest consecutively-serving current non-royal national leader globally.

Obiang graduated from military school and served under his uncle, Francisco Macías Nguema, holding various positions, including director of the infamous Black Beach prison. In 1979, he ousted Macías in a military coup, becoming president and chairman of the Supreme Military Council junta. Under his rule, Equatorial Guinea has become a significant oil producer, and Obiang chaired the African Union from 2011 to 2012.

Despite overseeing economic growth, Obiang is criticized for authoritarianism, corruption, and human rights abuses. His Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) holds virtually all governing power, and the constitution grants him sweeping powers, resembling a legal dictatorship. Family members occupy key government positions.

Born into the Esangui ethnic clan, Obiang's parents migrated from Gabon to Spanish Guinea for economic reasons. After completing studies in labor administration, he joined the Colonial Guard during the colonial period and attended the General Military Academy in Spain.

In 1979, Obiang seized power from his uncle, Francisco Macías, in a coup, leading to significant changes in the country. Despite promises of amnesty and the end of forced labor, human rights abuses persisted.

Under Obiang's leadership, Equatorial Guinea has maintained relations with the U.S., with shared interests in oil contributing to diplomatic ties. The country has also engaged in international relations with Spain, Cameroon, and historically, North Korea.

Equatorial Guinea's economy transformed after the discovery of oil in 1995, leading to rapid growth. However, the wealth has been concentrated within the ruling family, and the country faces criticism for human rights abuses, limited democracy, and corruption.

President Obiang has cultivated a cult of personality, with state media declaring him the country's "God" and assigning divine powers. Despite criticism of his leadership, Obiang has maintained power, winning elections amid accusations of fraud.

Forbes magazine identifies Obiang as one of the world's wealthiest heads of state, with a net worth of $600 million. Concerns about corruption arose when he took control of the national treasury, depositing funds into accounts at Riggs Bank. Investigations revealed substantial payments from oil companies, contributing to Equatorial Guinea's designation as one of the most corrupt states.

Obiang and his family face allegations of corruption, misuse of public funds, and financing personal luxuries. Governments have seized assets worth millions, and investigations into corruption are ongoing. Despite promises to improve governance, critics argue that little progress has been made.

In his personal life, Obiang married Constancia Mangue Nsue Okomo in 1968. He has received honors from various countries, including the Grand Collar of the Order of Lakandula in the Philippines and the Grand Officer Honorary Order of the Yellow Star in Suriname.

Reference:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teodoro_Obiang_Nguema_Mbasogo