French envoy to Central African Republic faces disciplinary probe over alleged women guests

France’s foreign ministry has opened disciplinary proceedings against its ambassador to the Central African Republic, Bruno Foucher, following allegations that he regularly hosted dozens of women at his official residence in Bangui. Le Canard enchaîné reported that between January 2024 and March 2026, about 30 women aged 20 to 30 visited the embassy, with some staying overnight and receiving roughly 15 visits per month.

An inspection conducted in April uncovered what officials described as a security breach, leading to the current investigation. Foucher, who has served as ambassador to CAR since 2023 after postings in Lebanon, Iran and Chad, acknowledged sexual relations with two young women but denied broader misconduct. The ministry’s statement said the probe was initiated at its own request and that disciplinary measures are ongoing. The scandal emerges as Paris attempts to restore relations with CAR, a nation where Russian security firms, notably the Wagner group, have expanded their foothold and where French officials accuse Moscow of stoking anti-French sentiment.