Guinea’s government has defended the two-year prison sentence handed down to opposition leader Aliou Bah, who was found guilty of “offending” President Mamadi Doumbouya. The government spokesperson emphasized the need to distinguish between criticism and defamation, which is “subject to legal consequences”.
However, opposition figures and critics argue that the trial was politically motivated, aiming to silence dissenting voices. Siaka Barry, president of the MPDG party, expressed concerns over the manipulation of the justice system, stating that “freedom of expression is a scarce resource in our nation”.
The sentence has sparked international concerns, with the Forces Vives de Guinée, a coalition of opposition groups, refusing to recognize the current authorities after the transition period ended on December 31. The group had warned of this stance prior to the sentence.
In response to the international community’s inaction, Siaka Barry urged intervention, saying, “We do not perceive ECOWAS’ presence. This is why we urge the international community to intervene and engage with all relevant parties”.
The Guinean government’s actions have raised concerns about the country’s democratic trajectory, particularly given the military junta’s continued grip on power. The international community’s response will be crucial in shaping Guinea’s future.
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