In a significant shift from its previous silence, France has expressed deep concern regarding the disappearance of Foniké Menguè and Billo Bah, two prominent activists associated with the FNDC (National Front for the Defense of the Constitution) movement in Guinea. The French government is calling on the Guinean authorities to shed “full light” on the circumstances surrounding their disappearance. This announcement comes on the heels of the 100th day since the two activists were abducted.
Foniké Menguè and Billo Bah were arrested without a warrant in the early hours of July 9, 2024, by Guinean military forces at their homes. Since their arrest, their families and loved ones have been left in the dark, with no information regarding their whereabouts. The United Nations has voiced its concerns over the possibility of extrajudicial execution, intensifying the urgency surrounding the case.
France’s latest statement was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighting a growing unease among international observers regarding human rights in Guinea. The day before this official announcement, the French embassy in Guinea took an unofficial stance by sharing a post on social media from the European Union, which also demanded clarifications from the Guinean government regarding the activists’ disappearance.
The lack of action from France, which maintains a security cooperation with the Guinean junta, has drawn criticism from various quarters, especially considering the responses from the United Nations, the United States, and the United Kingdom. These nations had all reacted swiftly following the abduction of Foniké Menguè and Billo Bah. In September, a coalition of NGOs urged the French government to publicly condemn human rights violations occurring in Guinea.
The situation in Guinea has become increasingly precarious since the military coup that brought the current junta to power. The FNDC, a coalition of civil society groups and political parties, has been vocal in its opposition to the junta’s actions, advocating for the restoration of constitutional order and the protection of human rights. The group has faced severe repression, with members frequently subjected to intimidation, arrest, and violence.
Foniké Menguè, a well-known activist, has been a central figure in protests against the junta, advocating for accountability and transparency. His disappearance, alongside that of Billo Bah, has sparked outrage both domestically and internationally. The silence from the French government was particularly striking, given France’s historical ties to Guinea and its role as a significant player in West African affairs.
The French government’s change in tone reflects a broader concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Guinea. In recent months, reports of arbitrary arrests, forced disappearances, and state violence have surged, prompting calls for intervention from various international bodies. The activists’ families have been relentless in their pursuit of justice, organizing protests and seeking international support to raise awareness about the plight of their loved ones.
In light of France’s recent comments, analysts suggest that this may signal a shift in its approach towards the Guinean junta. The French government, which has been criticized for its perceived complacency, might be recognizing the need to balance its security interests with its commitment to human rights. Observers note that France’s involvement in West Africa has often been complicated by its historical ties and strategic interests in the region.
The international community’s attention has focused on Guinea as concerns grow over the junta’s increasing authoritarianism. The response from countries like the United States and the UK indicates a collective desire to hold the Guinean government accountable for its actions. The UN’s statement, expressing fears of possible extrajudicial killings, highlights the gravity of the situation and the urgency for a thorough investigation into the activists’ disappearance.
As the 2024 elections approach, the political landscape in Guinea remains tense. The junta’s grip on power has been met with widespread resistance, and the FNDC’s advocacy for democratic governance continues to resonate with many Guineans. However, the fear of repression looms large, and the fate of Foniké Menguè and Billo Bah serves as a chilling reminder of the risks faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo.
The plight of these activists has not only captured national attention but has also drawn international scrutiny. The continued calls for transparency from various governments and organizations emphasize the need for accountability in Guinea. Activists and human rights defenders are urging the international community to take a stand against the violations occurring in the country, advocating for a united front in the pursuit of justice.
In conclusion, France’s recent expression of concern regarding the disappearance of Foniké Menguè and Billo Bah marks a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle for human rights and democracy in Guinea. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by activists in the country and the importance of international solidarity in addressing human rights abuses. As the world watches, the hope remains that the call for transparency and justice will not go unanswered, paving the way for a more just and democratic future for Guinea.
This article is originally published on /fr.news.yahoo.com
