Nouakchott Court of Appeal orders medical examination for former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz

The Court of Appeal in Nouakchott, Mauritania, has decided to establish a specialized medical team to assess the health condition of former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz. This decision comes amid ongoing legal proceedings and concerns over the former leader’s health, as raised by his family and legal representatives.

In a live broadcast on December 30, relatives of Ould Abdel Aziz revealed that the Court had agreed to suspend trial sessions for a week to allow for the medical evaluation. The court’s decision was made in consultation with Ould Abdel Aziz, ensuring his cooperation in the matter.

According to a statement from his defense team, a medical report prepared by Mauritanian doctors indicated that Ould Abdel Aziz requires an urgent and complex knee surgery. The defense emphasized the necessity of this procedure, citing its importance for his health and well-being.
The former president, who led Mauritania from 2009 to 2019, has been facing legal challenges, including allegations of corruption and embezzlement during his tenure. His trial has garnered significant public and media attention, reflecting the broader implications of holding former leaders accountable in Mauritania’s evolving political and judicial landscape.

The court’s decision to prioritize the former president’s health highlights a commitment to ensuring humane treatment within the judicial process. However, the suspension of the trial sessions has also raised questions about the potential impact on the pace and trajectory of the proceedings.