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Teodoro Obiang Nguema MbasogoPresident of Equatorial Guinea
Date of Birth: 05.06.1942
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Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Rise to Power
- Presidency and Constitutional Reforms
- Cult of Personality and Economic Growth
- Family and Power
- Corruption and International Concerns
- Health and Succession
Early Life and Military Career
Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo was born on June 5, 1942, in Acoacán, Equatorial Guinea. Hailing from the influential Esangui clan of the Fang ethnic group, he completed his schooling in Bata. In 1969, he was appointed Commander of the Western Military District and later became Commander of the National Guard in 1975.
Rise to Power
On January 8, 1976, Obiang stormed the Nigerian consulate, resulting in the deaths of 11 individuals. In December of the same year, he arrested over a hundred civilian officials protesting his uncle's economic policies. On August 3, 1979, Obiang led a military coup with 400 mercenaries from Morocco, overthrowing his uncle, Francisco Macías Nguema. Nguema was executed after a trial, and Obiang became the new President of Equatorial Guinea on October 12.
Presidency and Constitutional Reforms
In 1981, Obiang was promoted to Colonel. A new constitution was adopted in 1982, establishing a single-party state. He assumed the additional role of Minister of Defense in 1986. In 1991, extensive oil reserves were discovered, and a new constitution was adopted in 1991, establishing a multi-party system. Obiang was elected President in 1996 and 2002 with overwhelming support, amid opposition boycotts.
Cult of Personality and Economic Growth
Obiang's presidency has been marked by a cult of personality, with state radio proclaiming him "like God in Heaven" in 2003. In 2007, he proposed adding Portuguese as a third official language, alongside Spanish and French. In 2022, he was re-elected for his sixth term as President.
Family and Power
Obiang has appointed many family members to key government positions, including his son Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue as Minister of Agriculture and Forestry and his nephew Melchor Esono Edjo as State Secretary for Treasury and Budget. Relatives of his wife have also held prominent roles, such as Marcelino Oyono Ntutumu as First Deputy Prime Minister.
Corruption and International Concerns
Obiang's son, Teodorín, has been accused of corruption by the United States authorities. In 2007, Amnesty International criticized human rights abuses under Obiang's rule.
Health and Succession
Obiang is reportedly suffering from cancer, and succession plans are being considered. His son, Teodorín, is seen as a potential successor, despite the corruption allegations.