Equatorial Guinea Government Resigns After Achieving Less Than 10% of Targets

MALABO, EQUATORIAL GUINEA — Equatorial Guinea's government has resigned after failing to meet key performance targets, with Vice-President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue revealing that the administration had achieved less than 10% of its objectives. The mass resignation paves the way for President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the world's longest-serving head of state, to appoint a new cabinet as criticism grows over corruption, economic stagnation, and the country's continued dependence on oil revenues.

In a statement posted on social media, Vice-President Obiang said Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua had formally submitted the resignation of all government ministers. The vice-president said the decision reflected a commitment to accountability in public administration.

"The degree of execution achieved is clearly insufficient in relation to the expectations and commitments undertaken," Obiang wrote on X.

He added that the resignations were consistent with the principle that public officials must be judged by their performance and results. Although specific targets were not disclosed, officials indicated that the government had fallen far short of expectations.

A statement issued by the ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) said President Obiang had expressed dissatisfaction with the outgoing administration's performance. According to the party, the president criticised widespread inefficiency, misuse of public resources, and a failure to implement development programmes. The statement also accused some government officials of using state resources for personal interests while neglecting national priorities. Authorities further highlighted delays in infrastructure and development projects that were intended to improve living standards and stimulate economic growth.

A major concern raised by the president was the government's inability to reduce the country's heavy dependence on the oil and gas sector. Equatorial Guinea is one of sub-Saharan Africa's largest oil producers, with petroleum exports accounting for the overwhelming majority of government revenue and foreign currency earnings.

However, officials said insufficient progress had been made in expanding sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and other productive industries. The president reportedly criticised the lack of policies aimed at increasing local production and reducing reliance on imported goods that could be produced domestically.

Despite significant oil wealth, many citizens have seen little benefit from the country's natural resources. Equatorial Guinea, which has a population of approximately 1.8 million people, continues to face high levels of poverty and inequality. Economic challenges have intensified in recent years as oil production has declined and global demand patterns have shifted, placing pressure on government finances and economic growth. Analysts have long argued that diversifying the economy is critical to ensuring long-term stability and reducing vulnerability to fluctuations in global energy markets.

President Obiang, who has ruled Equatorial Guinea since seizing power in 1979, is expected to announce a new cabinet in the coming days. The reshuffle is likely to be closely watched both domestically and internationally, as observers assess whether the new administration can address concerns over governance, corruption, and economic reform. The resignation marks one of the most significant government shake-ups in recent years in the Central African nation and underscores mounting pressure for improved performance within the state apparatus.

Equatorial Guinea government resigns