The Coalition for the Restoration of a Democratic State (CORED), a coalition of 13 Equatorial Guinean opposition parties and associations, has rejected allegations of terrorism and plans for armed uprising. On September 23, CORED denied the accusations made by the Equatorial Guinean prosecutor's office, which had declared the coalition a terrorist group. CORED stated that it is a "civil political coalition" and not a terrorist or military organization.
The allegations against CORED were made by prosecutor Anatolio Nzang Nguema Mangue on September 21. He claimed that CORED had activated a "plan B" to solicit support from international armed groups, such as Al-Qaeda or Boko Haram, to assassinate the head of state, overthrow the government by force, and commit attacks on official buildings and embassies. CORED has strongly denied these allegations, stating that its actions are solely focused on politics and human rights.
CORED was formed in September 2013 and brings together opposition parties and associations, with most of its members living in exile in France, Spain, and the UK. The coalition has published a 15-point statement on its website, rejecting the allegations and describing the accusations as unfounded. CORED has also denounced the financial rewards offered by the Equatorial Guinean justice system for the "return" of its members.
The prosecutor's office has announced rewards ranging from 700,000 to 1.5 million euros for the return of 13 CORED leaders, including Salomon Abeso Ndong, who is considered the leader of the movement. CORED has described these measures as "grave" and contrary to the right of asylum and the principle of non-refoulement. The coalition has urged Spain, France, the EU, and the UN not to validate the accusations made by Malabo.
CORED has also demanded that the Equatorial Guinean authorities present evidence of their allegations before an independent tribunal. The organization has emphasized that it has no intention of using violence or taking contact with armed groups to destabilize the government. CORED's statement has been made public at a time when Equatorial Guinea is considered one of the most corrupt countries in the world, ranking 172nd out of 182 countries.
The country's human rights record has been a subject of concern for many international organizations, including Transparency International. CORED's rejection of the allegations has been seen as a significant development in the country's ongoing political tensions. The coalition's insistence on a peaceful and democratic approach has been welcomed by human rights groups and supporters of democracy in Equatorial Guinea.
The international community has been urged to take note of the situation and to support CORED's call for an independent investigation. The organization's leaders have emphasized that their struggle is for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Equatorial Guinea. The developments have sparked concerns about the country's stability and the potential for further escalation in the coming days.
Key points
- CORED denies allegations of planning a violent overthrow of the government.
- The coalition rejects accusations of terrorism and soliciting support from armed groups.
- CORED demands that the Equatorial Guinean authorities present evidence of their allegations before an independent tribunal.
