France has started disciplinary action against its ambassador to the Central African Republic after reports he brought dozens of women to the official residence in Bangui.
The foreign ministry opened an administrative procedure against Bruno Foucher, 65, following claims that between January 2024 and March 2025 he invited about 30 women to his home. According to French media, some stayed overnight. The allegations also include that Foucher had sexual relations with some of the women, which triggered an internal review for a possible security breach.
A French diplomat told the BBC the procedures are ongoing. The ministry has not said what sanctions could follow or how long the process will take. The BBC has also asked the French embassy in Bangui for comment and has not received a response.
Foucher has been France’s top envoy in CAR since 2023. The case comes at a sensitive time for ties between Paris and Bangui. During a visit to the capital in March, Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot described relations as having been “completely restored” after years of strain.
The investigation focuses on conduct at the residence, not on official policy, but it has drawn attention because of the security implications of hosting non-staff overnight at a diplomatic compound.
