Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Congolese President Denis Sassou-Nguesso is making a final bid to block the sale of his seized Falcon jet, scheduled for 3 October in France. This marks the culmination of a lengthy legal battle launched by the Congolese government, which aims to retain ownership of the aircraft.
The Falcon jet, a symbol of opulence, was confiscated by French authorities in 2020 after a lawsuit was filed by the Paris-based organization Sherpa. The group accused Sassou-Nguesso and his family of corrupt practices, alleging that the jet was purchased using embezzled Congolese funds.
In a recent move, the Congolese government has submitted a final legal appeal to the French courts, hoping to halt the sale of the Falcon jet. The appeal argues that the aircraft should be considered a national asset and not subject to confiscation.
If the sale goes through, it could set a precedent for future cases involving the seizure of assets acquired through corrupt means. The outcome of this legal battle is being closely watched not only in Congo but also by global anti-corruption activists.
The Congolese government’s determination to retain the Falcon jet is seen by critics as a reflection of President Sassou-Nguesso’s reluctance to be held accountable for alleged corruption. The president, who has been in power for more than 40 years, has faced numerous allegations of embezzlement and misuse of public funds.
Industry experts believe that the sale of the jet could potentially recover a significant amount of money that is believed to have been siphoned from the Congolese treasury. However, the Congolese government argues that the aircraft is an essential tool for the president’s diplomatic missions and should be exempt from confiscation.
“The Falcon jet is crucial for President Sassou-Nguesso’s diplomatic engagements and enhances Congo’s international presence,” said a spokesperson for the Congolese government.
The final decision on the fate of the Falcon jet lies with the French courts. If the sale is allowed to proceed, it will serve as a powerful message to other African leaders that ill-gotten gains will not be shielded from scrutiny.
As the legal battle nears its conclusion, the Congolese government is making a final effort to retain ownership of the jet. Whether President Sassou-Nguesso will succeed in blocking the sale remains uncertain, but the outcome will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the fight against corruption in Africa and beyond.
