Equatorial Guinea's Cabinet Resigns Over Failure to Meet Performance Targets

The entire Cabinet of Equatorial Guinea has resigned after achieving less than 10% of the government's stated objectives in nearly two years, according to Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue. Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua submitted the collective resignation on behalf of all government members. The vice president stated that the move aligned with "the principle that accountability in public administration must be accompanied by results," emphasizing that execution levels fell far short of expectations and commitments undertaken.

The ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) cited multiple failures as reasons for the resignation, including corruption, misuse of state resources for personal interests, delays in executing development projects, and a lack of economic diversification. The party noted that the government had failed to implement policies to strengthen the agricultural sector, which officials believe could reduce dependence on imported goods and support domestic economic growth. The government was originally appointed in 2024 as part of efforts to improve governance and accelerate economic reforms.

President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has ruled the oil-rich West African nation since 1979 and is the world's longest-serving leader, is expected to appoint a new government in the coming days. The resignation is unlikely to shift the political balance in Equatorial Guinea, where the president maintains a strong grip on power and frequently appoints family members and allies to senior positions. Vice President Obiang Mangue, the president's son, is considered one of the most influential figures in government and a potential successor.

Equatorial Guinea's economy remains heavily dependent on petroleum, with oil and gas accounting for the majority of government revenue and exports. However, the country has experienced economic challenges in recent years due to declining oil production and reduced global demand. Despite significant natural resource wealth, poverty remains widespread among the country's estimated 1.8 million population, with most citizens not benefiting substantially from oil revenues.