Public revelations about state-owned buildings generating rental income for private individuals have reignited the debate on governance in Gabon. In response, judicial officer Maître Axel Foumane Dounga advocates for a comprehensive national inventory of the country’s public assets. He explains why judicial officers could be instrumental in securing these holdings for the benefit of all Gabonese citizens.
Why a national asset inventory is long overdue
Maître Foumane asserts that a modern state must maintain precise knowledge of its entire portfolio—both movable and immovable property. Such an inventory would serve as a cornerstone for transparent governance, enabling authorities to verify legal status, occupancy, and revenue generation while identifying irregularities or mismanagement.
He emphasizes that without an accurate and up-to-date record, state assets risk being misappropriated, underutilized, or exploited without proper oversight. This systemic gap not only undermines public trust but also deprives the nation of essential resources.
Judicial officers: the key to a legally sound inventory
As public ministerial officers sworn to impartiality, judicial officers are uniquely positioned to lead this initiative. Their role involves authenticating facts with legal weight—precisely the expertise needed for a credible asset survey. An inventory conducted by these professionals would ensure:
- Neutral and impartial documentation of each asset;
- Detailed descriptions, precise locations, and verified occupancy status;
- Legally binding reports admissible in court, preventing disputes over authenticity.
This approach transforms a mere administrative exercise into a legally secure and actionable process.
Objectives: transparency, accountability, and revenue protection
The proposed inventory aims to achieve multiple goals:
- Identify every asset owned by the state, assess its legal standing, and determine its mode of exploitation;
- Uncover unauthorized occupations or illegal appropriations that drain public coffers;
- Enhance governance by making asset management more transparent and accountable;
- Preserve state resources for equitable distribution among Gabonese citizens.
Maître Foumane stresses that a well-documented asset portfolio serves as a powerful deterrent against corruption, conflicts of interest, and financial mismanagement.
A call to action for national leadership
The judicial officer urges the President of the Republic to prioritize this national undertaking. In a climate demanding greater transparency and accountability, he argues that Gabon must develop a complete map of its public assets. Such a move would not only safeguard national wealth but also set a precedent for responsible governance.
“We can only protect what we know,” he concludes. “This inventory would be a lasting legacy for future generations and a clear signal of Gabon’s commitment to modern, ethical stewardship of its national heritage.”
