Ex-President Aziz: 15 years in prison for illegal enrichment confirmed!

Ex-President Aziz: 15 years in prison for illegal enrichment confirmed!

On November 4, 2025, the Mauritanian Cour supreme made a landmark decision confirming the 15-year prison sentence for former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz. This move comes as no surprise as Aziz had already been convicted of “illegal enrichment” and “influence peddling”. His failed application against the decision shows how determined the judiciary is to punish responsibility for corruption within its own ranks.

The initial situation is remarkable: Aziz, who ruled from 2008 to 2019, was faced with a five-year prison sentence for the first time in December 2023. He is accused of using his position of power to unlawfully increase his personal wealth. The conviction of the former head of state is a unique case in Mauritania's recent political history, as he is one of the few ex-presidents to be put behind bars for personal gain.

Political fault lines and social reactions

Aziz’s conviction is drawing strong political and social reactions. The decision marks a clear political break with his successor Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, highlighting tensions within Mauritanian politics. Many citizens and critics see this development as a necessary signal in the fight against corruption, which is often referred to as the “second oldest industry in the world”. Federal Agency for Civic Education describes. Corruption is an issue that is deeply rooted in political structures and has been discussed repeatedly in both ancient and modern times.

Defining corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for personal gain shows how relevant this issue has remained over the centuries. Current examples, such as the conviction of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy for bribery, make it clear that corruption knows no national borders and always endangers trust in institutions.

Impact on political discourse

The conviction of Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz could not only change the political climate in Mauritania, but also trigger a broader discussion about the role of corruption in politics. The distinction between public interest and private benefit, which has become increasingly clear with the advent of modernity, remains a challenge for many societies today. As is well known, one of the uncertainties associated with corruption is the question of trust in public institutions.

It remains to be seen how this decision will impact Mauritania's political landscape in the long term. The developments surrounding Aziz's conviction and the associated discussions about corruption and state integrity could point the way to future reforms and dealing with abuse of power.