Guinea's Military Government Orders Prosecution of Alpha Condé for 'Treason'

The junta in Guinea has instructed the legal authorities to bring new charges against Alpha Condé, the former president who was ousted in a coup in 2021. 

The charges include accusations of "treason". Condé, who served as the head of state from 2010 to 2021 and has been living in exile in Turkey since his removal, is already facing legal action for alleged "corruption" and other serious offenses such as "murder, torture, kidnapping, and rape".

The country has a history of brutal crackdowns on political demonstrations. In a letter, Justice Minister Alphonse Charles Wright directed the Conakry public prosecutor to commence legal proceedings against Condé for the alleged acts of treason, criminal conspiracy, and involvement in the illegal possession of weapons and ammunition.

The Keeper of the Seals was made aware of Alpha Condé's involvement, alongside Mr. Fodé Moussa Mara, a prominent supporter and blogger for Mr Condé, in acquiring weapons and related materials. Mr Wright, in a public letter dated Monday, did not provide any additional details regarding the type or quantity of these weapons.

In 2010, Alpha Condé became Guinea's first democratically elected president following several decades of authoritarian rule. However, his ambition to extend his presidency and seek a third term sparked a powerful protest movement that was brutally suppressed until his removal from power.

Following the 2021 coup, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya assumed power and has pledged to reconstruct a nation plagued by divisions and widespread corruption. 

Additionally, his government has initiated numerous legal proceedings against individuals associated with former President Condé.

The military officials of Guinea have committed to restoring civilian governance in the nation by 2026.