In a historic judgment that could reshape political accountability in West Africa, a Mauritanian appeals court on Wednesday sentenced former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz to 15 years in prison and imposed a $3 million fine for corruption-related offenses. The court’s decision marks an escalation of the five-year sentence initially handed down in 2023, intensifying the legal and political fallout for the former leader.
Aziz, a retired army general who led Mauritania from 2009 to 2019 following two military coups, was convicted of money laundering and illicit self-enrichment. Authorities allege that during his decade in power, he accumulated more than $70 million in assets through unlawful means. Since his first conviction last year, Aziz has remained in custody.
The appeals court’s ruling, delivered in the capital Nouakchott, reinforces growing calls across Africa for stronger anti-corruption measures — particularly against political elites who have long enjoyed impunity.
From Coup Leader to Courtroom Defendant
Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz’s rise to power began in 2005, when he helped orchestrate a military coup that overthrew President Maaouya Ould Sid’Ahmed Taya. After another power grab in 2008, Aziz won presidential elections the following year and was re-elected in 2014. His 10-year tenure was characterized by promises of reform, economic development, and counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region.
However, critics argue his administration was mired in opacity and favoritism. The turning point came after Mauritania’s first peaceful democratic transfer of power in 2019, when Aziz handed over the reins to his long-time ally and former chief of staff, President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani.
The relationship between the two soured shortly after the transition, particularly as Aziz attempted to exert influence over the ruling Union for the Republic (UPR) party. In response, a parliamentary commission launched an extensive probe into his administration in 2020, unearthing evidence of systemic embezzlement, abuse of power, and illegal appropriation of state assets.
“The former president diverted public funds for personal enrichment and used his position to build a vast financial empire,” said a senior judicial source familiar with the case.
The investigation ultimately implicated 12 individuals, including former ministers, family members, and business associates.
Court Clears Some Officials, Upholds Family Conviction
In addition to reaffirming Aziz’s guilt, the appellate court acquitted six high-ranking officials who had served in his administration, citing insufficient evidence. However, it upheld a two-year prison sentence for his son-in-law, who was convicted of influence peddling.
The court also ordered the closure of the Errahma Foundation, a charitable organization run by Aziz’s son, citing its entanglement in illicit financial activities. All assets of the foundation were ordered to be seized by the state.
Aziz’s legal team maintains that the case is politically motivated.
“This is not justice — it is a vendetta dressed up as law,” said lead defense lawyer Mohamed Lemine.
“President Aziz is being punished for challenging the current leadership and attempting to return to politics. This ruling is deeply flawed and will be appealed at the highest levels.”
Nonetheless, international observers have praised the Mauritanian judiciary’s resolve in pursuing a former head of state — a rarity on the continent.
“This verdict is a bold step for accountability in Africa,” said Ousmane Ndiaye, a governance analyst with the African Legal Observatory.
“While the process is politically charged, the symbolism of holding a former president accountable cannot be underestimated.”
A Country of Wealth and Widespread Poverty
Despite its substantial natural resources — including iron ore, gold, copper, oil, and gas — Mauritania remains one of the poorest countries in the region. According to the United Nations, nearly 60% of the population lives below the poverty line, with most citizens relying on agriculture or informal labor to survive.
The contrast between Aziz’s alleged amassed fortune and the harsh realities faced by everyday Mauritanians has fueled public anger.
“We are a rich country with poor people,” said Nouakchott-based activist Fatima Sow.
“This trial gives hope that one day, leaders will be forced to work for the people — not themselves.”
The economic stagnation has also pushed thousands of young Mauritanians to seek better prospects abroad. Recent data shows an uptick in irregular migration toward Europe and the United States, often involving perilous journeys through the desert or by sea.
A Political Turning Point?
Aziz’s conviction could mark a defining moment for Mauritania’s political and judicial institutions. The case is the first of its kind in the country’s modern history, and its outcome may influence future leadership behavior.
Still, analysts caution that genuine reform requires systemic change.
“The trial is a signal, but not a solution,” said Dr. Awa Sy, a political science professor at the University of Dakar.
“Institutional reforms, stronger rule of law, and civil society engagement must follow if Mauritania wants to turn this moment into long-term progress.”
President Ghazouani has remained largely silent on the proceedings, portraying himself as respecting judicial independence. However, his administration is expected to use the outcome to bolster its image ahead of the next electoral cycle.
For Aziz, once one of the most powerful men in the Sahel, the fall from grace is now complete — from presidential palace to prison cell.
