What the world views as a sex tape scandal may actually be the latest twist in the power struggle over Equatorial Guinea’s presidency.

In recent weeks, social media has been flooded with over 150 leaked videos of senior civil servant Baltasar Ebang Engonga, known as “Bello,” engaging in sexual acts in his office and other locations with various women. Many of these women are reportedly connected to powerful figures, including wives and relatives of those close to the political center.

Some speculate that these leaks are a calculated attempt to discredit Engonga, who is a nephew of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema and considered a possible successor. Obiang, 82, has been in power since 1979, making him the world’s longest-serving president. His administration has faced significant criticism for alleged human rights abuses, including arbitrary killings and torture, according to U.S. government reports.

Under Obiang’s rule, Equatorial Guinea has seen both an economic boom and subsequent decline due to depleting oil reserves. While a wealthy elite enjoys the country’s resources, many of the 1.7 million citizens live in poverty.

Scandals have also touched the president’s family. His son, now vice president, once made headlines for owning a $275,000 crystal-studded glove worn by Michael Jackson.

Although regular elections are held, genuine political opposition is virtually nonexistent, as activists face imprisonment or exile, and potential rivals are heavily monitored. In such a restricted society with no free press, verifying details of the current scandal remains challenging.