The High Authority of Communication (HAC) in Guinea has lifted its sanction against Mamadou Diawo Barry, correspondent for the pan-African weekly magazine Jeune Afrique. The decision, made on October 1, 2026, comes two weeks after the HAC withdrew Barry's journalistic accreditation. The reinstatement follows conciliatory efforts by Jeune Afrique's management and guarantees provided by the magazine.
According to the HAC's decision N° 36 / HAC / P / 2026, the sanction was lifted due to Jeune Afrique's commitment to respect Guinea's laws and regulations governing foreign press correspondents. The magazine's management assured the HAC that it would maintain a clear distinction between Barry's work as a Jeune Afrique correspondent and his role as a local journalist.
The HAC emphasized its commitment to press freedom, information pluralism, and constructive dialogue with national and international media. The institution highlighted its role in promoting a favorable environment for journalistic activities in Guinea. The decision was signed by Boubacar Yacine Diallo and endorsed by nine commissioners.
With the sanction lifted, Mamadou Diawo Barry is now fully authorized to resume his professional activities, including collecting, processing, and disseminating information on behalf of Jeune Afrique. The decision enables him to operate freely across Guinea's territory, regaining his full professional rights.
The HAC's move brings an end to the dispute that began on September 16, 2026, between the regulatory body and Jeune Afrique. The incident sparked concerns about press freedom and the operating conditions for international media in Guinea. The resolution demonstrates the HAC's willingness to engage in dialogue with media organizations.
The case drew attention to the importance of maintaining a conducive environment for journalistic activities in Guinea. The HAC's decision is seen as a positive step towards fostering cooperation between regulatory bodies and media organizations. The incident highlighted the challenges faced by foreign correspondents operating in Guinea.
The lifting of the sanction against Mamadou Diawo Barry allows Jeune Afrique to continue its operations in Guinea, maintaining its presence in the country's media landscape. The HAC's decision underscores the significance of collaboration and dialogue in resolving disputes between regulatory bodies and media organizations.
Key points
- The HAC's decision to lift the sanction against Mamadou Diawo Barry was influenced by Jeune Afrique's commitment to respect Guinea's laws and regulations.
- The reinstatement of Barry's accreditation enables him to resume his work as Jeune Afrique correspondent, promoting press freedom and information pluralism in Guinea.
- The resolution of the dispute between the HAC and Jeune Afrique highlights the importance of constructive dialogue between regulatory bodies and media organizations.
