Equatorial Guinea’s government has resigned after failing to meet its objectives, Vice-President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue said. Obiang, who is also the son of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, said the prime minister had presented the resignation of all members of the government because it had barely reached 10% of its targets.

Government Accountability and Corruption Concerns

He did not specify the targets. But a statement by the ruling party said the president had observed that the government encouraged corruption and failed to diversify the economy. President Obiang is the world’s longest-serving leader who has ruled the oil-rich West African country since 1979 with a strong grip, while naming family members to key government roles.

The president appointed the outgoing government in 2024, with Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua as prime minister; On Tuesday, the vice-president said the resignation was in line with “the principle that responsibility in public management must be accompanied by results.”

“The degree of execution achieved is clearly insufficient in relation to the expectations and commitments undertaken,” he posted on X; In a statement on Facebook, the ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) said the president was dissatisfied with the management of the outgoing government. A new government is expected to be appointed.

Economic Mismanagement and Reliance on Oil

The statement further cited the misuse of state resources for personal interests and stagnation in the implementation of development projects. The president also noted that the government had not implemented policies to diversify the economy, especially in the agricultural sector, which would cut reliance on imported goods that can be produced locally.

Equatorial Guinea’s economy is heavily reliant on petroleum, with oil and gas accounting for most of its exports and revenues — In spite of its oil wealth, much of its 1.8 million population has not benefitted, as poverty remains rampant. In recent years. The economy has been on a decline amid reduced production and demand for oil.

Long-Term Leadership and Governance Challenges

President Obiang’s governance has faced criticism over the years, particularly regarding the lack of economic diversification and widespread poverty. Despite having one of the highest per capita incomes in Africa, the benefits of this wealth have not trickled down to the majority of the population.

The resignation comes amid broader governance challenges and questions about the transparency of government operations. The PDGE’s statement highlighted the need for a new government that can address these issues and improve public trust in the administration.