Press releases
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Delivered by
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk
Location
Geneva
Ahead of Sunday’s presidential election in Guinea, the civic and political space has been severely restricted, marked by intimidation of opposition actors, apparently politically-motivated enforced disappearances, and constraints on media freedom.
Several cases of enforced disappearance remain unresolved, including those of four relatives of artist and opposition figure Elie Kamano who have been missing since 16 November. The fate and whereabouts of Sanassy Keita, a photographer associated with former president Alpha Condé, also remain unknown following his abduction by armed, hooded men on 27 November.
The timing and apparent targeted nature of these incidents intimidate opposition figures, disrupt campaigning and deter voter mobilisation. They contribute to a climate of fear among political actors and the population at large, and risk undermining the credibility of the electoral process.
I urge the authorities to promptly and impartially investigate all allegations of enforced disappearances, determine the fate and whereabouts of the disappeared and ensure that those responsible for any violations are held accountable in accordance with international human rights law. They must also protect the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation in the electoral process, ensuring an environment free from fear, coercion or repression.
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