His name does not appear on any official organisational chart. He is the subject of whispered talk in Libreville's circles of power and among the leaders of foreign firms. This is Khalil Rihan, who shuns the limelight to better spin his web under the protective shadow of the head of state. The businessman has carved out a role for himself as an informal special adviser to President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who entrusts him with strategic negotiations with private firms and with some of his economic