France has formally opened disciplinary proceedings against its ambassador to the Central African Republic (CAR), Bruno Foucher, following allegations that he brought dozens of women to his official residence, raising security concerns.
The case was reported by the French weekly Le Canard enchaîné. According to the report, Foucher, 65, brought around 30 women aged 20 to 30 to his residence between January 2024 and March 2026, with some staying overnight. These visits prompted officials to report a security breach.
The newspaper said the diplomat admitted to having sexual relations with two young women. It also said he instructed staff to allow one of these young women to remain at the residence while he was away. On average, Foucher received about 15 visitors per month.
The French Foreign Ministry confirmed: “At the initiative of the ministry, an administrative investigation was conducted in Bangui in 2026. After receiving the results of this investigation, at the request of the minister, the ministry initiated disciplinary proceedings against the ambassador. This procedure is ongoing.” The ministry conducted an on-site inspection in April, leading to the opening of the disciplinary procedure.
Foucher is a career diplomat who has served as ambassador to the CAR since 2023. Previously, he was ambassador to Lebanon (2017-2020), Iran (2011-2016), and Chad (2006-2011).
The incident comes as Paris seeks to mend ties with the CAR, which have deteriorated significantly in recent years due to Russia's growing influence in France's former colony. Russia maintains a strong foothold in the CAR, mainly through the Wagner paramilitary force, which plays a key role in securing President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.
French officials have accused Russia of stoking anti-French sentiment in some African countries. In a related development, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot praised the “complete restoration of relations” between the two countries when he visited Bangui in March.
