Bruno Foucher, France's ambassador to the Central African Republic (CAR), is under investigation for allegedly hosting numerous African women at his official residence in Bangui for sexual encounters. The allegations, first reported by the Paris investigative magazine Le Canard enchaîné, suggest that Foucher, 65, regularly invited women aged between 20 and 30 to the embassy residence overnight. These alleged actions were reportedly in defiance of security protocols.
Sources indicate that at least 30 women may have visited Foucher's residence between January 2024 and March 2026. The frequency of these visits raised concerns at high levels, particularly given the significant Russian influence in the CAR. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched an inquiry into the matter last year on the advice of the French overseas secret service. The investigation is still ongoing.
The elite GIGN gendarmes, responsible for securing the diplomatic compound, reportedly became alarmed by the steady stream of female visitors. The French Foreign Ministry confirmed that an administrative inquiry was conducted in Bangui in 2026. Following the findings of this inquiry, disciplinary proceedings were initiated against Foucher at the request of the Foreign Minister. These proceedings are currently active.
Official reports suggest that Foucher has admitted to sexual relations with at least two local African women. He is also accused of allowing one woman to remain in his residence while he was away on official duties. The ambassador, who remains in his post, faces potential dismissal from the foreign service or a severe reprimand. He has not issued any public comment regarding the scandal.
Foucher is a career diplomat who entered France's foreign service after studying at ENA, a prestigious administrative school. His tenure in the CAR occurs against a backdrop of complex geopolitical dynamics, including the presence of the Russian paramilitary group Wagner, which provides security for President Faustin-Archange Touadéra. Paris has frequently accused Russia of fostering anti-Western sentiment in the CAR through disinformation campaigns.
Despite these tensions, relations between France and the CAR have seen some improvement since 2024. In March, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot made a high-level visit to the country, the first such visit since 2018, signaling a desire for a "full restoration of relations."
