Equatorial Guinea’s Government Walks Out Over Unmet Targets

Wed Jun 17 2026 18:33:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Vice‑President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue says the cabinet resigned after barely hitting 10% of its goals, prompting a new administration amid growing discontent.

Equatorial Guinea’s government has stepped down after the vice‑president claimed it missed more than 90% of its objectives. The resignation comes from a cabinet that struggled to diversify an oil‑driven economy and curtail corruption. President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has ruled since 1979, plans to appoint a fresh team led by a new prime minister. The move follows protests and accusations that state resources were misused by officials. With oil output and global demand falling, the caretaker government faces a tough task to revive growth and cut poverty.

Prime Minister resigns

The cabinet of Equatorial Guinea withdrew last week after Vice‑President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue announced it had reached only about 10% of its planned goals.

Why it matters

The ruling party said the leadership had fostered corruption and failed to diversify the oil‑based economy, which has long dominated national exports.

What’s next?

President Teodoro Obiang, who has ruled since 1979, hinted that a new government will be formed shortly. The country’s 1.8 million people still face high poverty levels while oil prices slide worldwide.

Context

Equatorial Guinea sits on the Congo Basin and is among the richest nations in sub‑Saharan Africa, yet its wealth has not translated into broad prosperity for most citizens.