The Direction nationale du parti MoDeL issued a statement on October 7, confirming that their president, Aliou Bah, was transferred from the civil prison in Coyah during the night of October 6-7. The party claims it has not been officially informed of his new destination. This development has sparked concern and prompted the party to take steps to verify the circumstances surrounding the transfer.
According to the MoDeL party, they are working closely with their team of lawyers and relevant authorities to establish the facts surrounding Aliou Bah's transfer. The party also aims to ensure the physical and moral integrity of their president and facilitate communication between his lawyers and himself. This move comes as a response to growing unease among party members, supporters, and the general public.
The transfer of Aliou Bah occurred just days after President Mamadi Doumbouya granted a pardon to 217 convicts, including Aliou Bah, on October 2. The pardon was issued through decree D/2026/299/PRG/SGG. However, the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights emphasized that the beneficiaries of this measure must undergo a 45-day civic encadrement and reintegration program.
The civic program is designed to strengthen participants' understanding of their rights and responsibilities, promote respect for institutions, prevent recidivism, and facilitate a smooth return to family, social, and professional life. While the Ministry's statement did not mention Aliou Bah's transfer, it highlighted the importance of this program in the reintegration process.
Aliou Bah was initially sentenced to two years in prison for "offense and defamation" against the head of state. The ECOWAS Court of Justice had ordered his immediate and unconditional release on June 25, 2026, and reiterated this request in a letter to the Guinean Supreme Court on September 25, which remains unanswered. Despite this, Aliou Bah benefited from President Doumbouya's pardon.
In light of the uncertainty surrounding Aliou Bah's whereabouts, the MoDeL party has urged its members, supporters, and citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and responsible. The party has promised to keep the public informed of any developments in this situation. This incident has raised concerns about the rule of law and the protection of human rights in Guinea.
As the situation unfolds, the international community is watching closely. The MoDeL party's efforts to secure information on Aliou Bah's transfer and ensure his well-being will be crucial in determining the course of events. The Guinean government's handling of this situation will likely have implications for the country's human rights record and its relations with regional and international organizations.
Key points
- The MoDeL party is seeking information on the whereabouts of its president, Aliou Bah, who was transferred from prison without official notification of his new location.
- Aliou Bah was granted a pardon by President Mamadi Doumbouya on October 2, but his transfer has sparked concern and uncertainty.
- The ECOWAS Court of Justice had ordered Aliou Bah's immediate release, but the Guinean government has not provided clear information on his current status.
