Mobutu v. SA Cotoni

Abstract

State immunity — Head of foreign State — Property — Immunity from attachment and execution — Whether extending to property of Head of State’s wife and children

State responsibility — For debts — State-owned corporations — Corporation controlled by President of foreign State — Whether President may be sued for debts of corporation

Expropriation — Compensation — Provision for payment of compensation following nationalization of foreign-owned property — Policy of “Zairianisation” — Transfer of assets to Zaire corporation controlled by President of Zaire — Attempt to secure compensation payable by corporation to former shareholders — Attachment of personal assets of President in Belgium — Whether President personally liable for payment of compensation — The law of Belgium