Equatorial Guinea has abolished the death penalty, state television announced on Monday (September 19th) citing a law enacted by Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, president of this small Central African oil country, among the most closed and regime among the most authoritative in the world.
"The death penalty is totally abolished in the Republic of Equatorial Guinea", states the law of the new Equatorial Guinean penal code signed by the Head of State and broadcast by the Vice President on Twitter.
The last official execution dates back to 2014 according to Amnesty International, but the regime is regularly accused by international NGOs of enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions and torture in particular.
Teodoro Obiang, 80, holds the world record for longevity in power, more than 43 years, excluding monarchies.
"Historical"
"I write it in capital letters to seal this unique moment: "EQUATORIAL GUINEA HAS ABOLISHED THE DEATH PENALTY", tweeted Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, nicknamed Teodorin, one of the sons of the Head of State , ubiquitous for two years on the political scene and presented as his dolphin.
Previously adopted by Parliament, the provision will come into force "within 90 days of its publication in the official state bulletin", specifies the text.
An event described as "historic for our country" by a journalist from state television in a pithy announcement at the very end of the television news.
With AFP
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