Georges Gilbert Baongla, President of the Republican Party (PR), has publicly disputed a summons from the gendarmerie, stating that he learned about it through social media rather than an official notification. The announcement, contained in a press release dated April 25, 2026, specifies that Baongla is currently on a business trip, preventing him from immediately responding to the summons.
Baongla has expressed his intention to consult with his legal advisors to determine the next course of action. He also appealed for calm among his activists and supporters, urging them to be cautious and avoid any excessive reaction to this situation.
"At the moment I discovered this summons, I was on a business trip... This prevents me from complying with the said summons," the statement said. He adds: "My advisors will be consulted urgently on this matter and I urge activists and supporters to remain calm".
This affair comes amid heightened tensions following recent and controversial statements by Georges Gilbert Baongla regarding Franck Biya, son of President Paul Biya. These statements could be the cause of the summons, although the official reason mentions accusations of cybercrime and defamation. While waiting to clarify the situation, Baongla's call for calm aims to prevent possible impulsive reactions from his supporters.
Georges Gilbert Baongla was expected to appear before investigators from the National Gendarmerie in Yaoundé on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. The politician is accused of cybercrime, defamation and other offenses.
