Guinea’s military government, led by General Mamady Doumbouya, has tightened its grip on the country by banning four major private radio stations and one private television channel.
The Ministry of Information cited a “failure to comply with content specifications” but offered no specifics.
This move follows a series of restrictions imposed on the media since the junta seized power in a 2021 coup.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF), a media freedom watchdog, condemned the crackdown.
They pointed out that four other radio stations have been jammed since November, three private TV channels are inaccessible, and several news websites were blocked in 2023.
Additionally, internet access was restricted at the end of 2023, a press union leader was detained, and a general strike erupted.
These actions come amidst a broader crackdown on dissent.
The junta has banned demonstrations, arrested opposition leaders and journalists, and left at least 47 people dead in protests, according to Amnesty International.
Despite initial promises to hold elections by the end of 2024, Guinea’s military leadership is casting doubt on the timeline.
Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah recently suggested the military may stay in power until 2025.
The junta chief remains silent on the issue, while both the FNDC (a civil society protest group) and the ANAD opposition coalition threaten renewed protests if power is not handed back by year-end.
This escalating media restriction and the uncertain path towards democracy paint a concerning picture for Guinea.
The international community, including regional bloc ECOWAS, will likely pressure the junta to uphold its commitments and ensure a peaceful transition back to civilian rule.
