Centrafrican whistleblower denied asylum in France despite exposing Wagner’s operations
Centrafrican journalist Ephrem Yalike-Ngonzo faces deportation after uncovering Wagner’s operations in his country. Despite receiving a travel permit from French authorities, his asylum request was rejected. His lawyer calls it a “dangerous precedent” for those fighting Russian propaganda.
From paid propagandist to whistleblower
Ephrem Yalike-Ngonzo’s journey began in 2019 when he worked as a freelance journalist in Centrafrica. According to his testimony, he received between 15 and 30 euros per article published in support of the national army and its Russian allies. These payments, though modest, represented a significant portion of his monthly income.
Exposure and retaliation
In 2024, Yalike-Ngonzo collaborated with an international investigation exposing Wagner Group’s influence operations in Centrafrica. His revelations contributed to sanctions against Mikhaïl Prudnikov, identified as a key figure in Moscow’s propaganda network in the country. However, his actions drew immediate threats from Wagner operatives, forcing him into exile.
Legal limbo in France
Upon his arrival in France, Yalike-Ngonzo received a special travel document allowing him to stay temporarily. Yet, French immigration authorities recently denied his asylum application. His legal team has filed an urgent appeal with the National Asylum Court, though a decision may take up to a year. In the meantime, he remains in hiding with his family, while relatives back in Centrafrica face relentless pressure from unknown actors seeking his whereabouts.
His lawyer condemned the refusal as a “stark warning” to investigative journalists exposing Kremlin-linked networks across Africa.
