2024-02-15 18:40:26
Cameroon’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications is rocked by an alleged embezzlement scandal involving Minister Minette Libong Li Likeng, its Director General of General Affairs (DAG) Germain Koukolo, and other officials.
An opaque “Solidarity Fund” system
The case dates back to 2023, when the penalties imposed on telecommunications operators were shared. Minister Libong created a special account called the “Solidarity Fund”, funded by more than 50 million FCFA, supposedly to assist staff in the event of hospitalization.
Exclusion of staff representatives and opaque management
Initially welcomed by the staff delegates, the management of the Fund became opaque after their exclusion from the process. The situation worsened with the arrival of new penalties to share.
Refusal of delegates and audit required
The staff representatives refused the new levy for the Solidarity Fund, demanding an audit of the old management. The audit was entrusted to the Inspector General of Services, in agreement with the Minister.
Attempts at manipulation and personal enrichment
Despite the absence of the audit report, DAG Koukolo, close to retirement, attempted to manipulate the process to capture a significant portion of the funds. In particular, he proposed including people not concerned in the payment and practicing “portage”, a fraudulent practice common in the Ministry.
Endless waiting and exorbitant demands
Payment of the penalties has been awaited for more than 8 months, and the Minister is also demanding around a hundred million for her office. This situation creates a climate of frustration and anger among staff.
A scandal that splashes the government
This scandal has rocked the Cameroonian government and raised questions about the management of public finances and the integrity of those responsible. Exemplary sanctions are expected to put an end to impunity and restore citizen confidence.