Did Former Mauritanian President Ould Abdel Aziz Deserve 15 Years for Corruption?
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Synopsis
In a landmark ruling, former Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for corruption and abuse of power. With plans to appeal, this case reveals the complexities of justice in a nation grappling with a legacy of corruption. What does this mean for Mauritania's future?
Key Takeaways
- Ould Abdel Aziz sentenced to 15 years for corruption.
- Case highlights the ongoing challenges of corruption in Mauritania.
- Legal teams are preparing to appeal the ruling.
- Assets worth $100 million were frozen during the investigation.
- Former president's legacy continues to be scrutinized.
Nouakchott, May 15 (NationPress) An appeals court has sentenced former Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz to 15 years in prison due to serious allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and money laundering.
Aziz, who was in power from August 5, 2009, to August 1, 2019, had initially received a five-year prison sentence in a prior ruling.
His attorney, Mohameden Ould Ichidou, announced that they plan to appeal to the Supreme Court, asserting that the verdict was influenced by abuse of power.
Conversely, Ibrahim Ould Ebety, representing the state, commended the judicial process, stating that the evidence was firmly rooted in material facts, as reported by Xinhua.
The ruling was issued during a session dedicated to the “Decade of Corruption” case, focusing on allegations stemming from Ould Abdel Aziz’s lengthy presidency. Throughout his tenure, he and a number of high-ranking officials faced numerous corruption-related accusations.
Additionally, the court mandated the dissolution of the “Al-Rahma Charity Association,” a foundation run by Badr Ould Abdel Aziz, the son of the ex-president, with directives to confiscate its assets.
Ould Abdel Aziz’s legal team is poised to contest this ruling with an appeal to the Supreme Court.
The Court of Appeal in Nouakchott wrapped up its review of the defendants and heard closing arguments on April 23.
Ould Abdel Aziz and his co-defendants returned to court in December 2023 after appealing their previous convictions.
In that same month, a court specializing in corruption sentenced him to five years in prison and revoked his civil rights.
This case has evolved into the longest-running trial in Mauritania's history, commencing on January 25, 2023. Initial verdicts were handed out on December 4, before the case was escalated to a higher court.
The allegations against Ould Abdel Aziz and his former associates included corruption, illicit enrichment, money laundering, granting improper benefits via government contracts, and jeopardizing state interests.
In relation to this investigation, authorities froze assets amounting to 41 billion ouguiyas (approximately $100 million). Reports suggest that more than half of these seized assets belonged to Ould Abdel Aziz and his family.
Ould Abdel Aziz completed two terms as president, from 2009 to 2019. He opted not to run in the June 2019 elections, instead endorsing his ally and successor, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, who took office in August 2019.
Point of View
I recognize the complexity of this case, which underscores the challenges Mauritania faces in addressing corruption. The legal outcomes of former officials will undoubtedly shape the public's trust in governance and the judicial system. The ongoing appeal process is a crucial aspect to monitor as it reflects the nation's commitment to justice.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges did Ould Abdel Aziz face?
Ould Abdel Aziz was charged with corruption, abuse of power, and money laundering.
What is the length of the sentence?
He has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.
What is the status of the appeal?
His lawyer intends to file an appeal to the Supreme Court.
What was the initial sentence?
He was initially sentenced to five years in prison.
What are the implications of this ruling?
This ruling could impact public trust in governance and the judicial system in Mauritania.
