France has denied asylum to a Central African journalist who exposed the activities of the Russian paramilitary group Wagner in the Central African Republic. Ephrem Yalike-Ngonzo, who had received a special travel permit from President Emmanuel Macron, now faces an uncertain future after his request was rejected.
a controversial decision with far-reaching consequences
Ephrem Yalike-Ngonzo’s asylum request was turned down on July 10, despite his critical role in uncovering Moscow’s propaganda network in the Central African Republic. His revelations contributed to the imposition of European sanctions against Mikhaïl Prudnikov, a key figure in Russia’s disinformation campaigns in Africa.
The journalist had been actively involved in pro-government and pro-Russian media campaigns in the Central African Republic since late 2019, receiving financial compensation for each published article. His decision to speak out in 2024 came at great personal risk, as Wagner-affiliated forces had already targeted him with death threats.
ongoing legal battle and family under pressure
An appeal has been filed with the National Asylum Court, though the process is expected to take up to a year. Meanwhile, Yalike-Ngonzo remains in hiding in France with his family, while relatives in the Central African Republic face repeated interrogations and pressure to disclose his whereabouts.
The rejection of his asylum claim sends a disturbing signal to those fighting against Russian disinformation, according to his legal representative. The decision underscores the challenges faced by whistleblowers who risk everything to expose foreign influence operations in Africa.