Guinea Faces Calls for Dedicated Human Rights Ministry After Government Resignation
Following the recent resignation of the Bah Oury government, a chorus of voices in Guinea is urging President Mamadi Doumbouya to prioritize the establishment of a dedicated ministry for human rights. The calls come amid growing concerns over reported human rights violations since the rise of the National Committee for Rally for Development (CNRD).
The push for a specialized ministry underscores a perceived gap in the current governmental structure. As the formation of a new government nears, civil society actors are emphasizing the necessity of a department solely focused on the promotion and protection of fundamental freedoms.
Renewed Focus on Human Rights Protections
A prominent civil society activist, Mamadou Kaly Diallo, directly appealed to President Doumbouya, stating, “Regarding the future government, all I can ask for, plead, is that there be a department in charge of human rights and fundamental freedoms, that there be a ministry dedicated to human rights and fundamental freedoms.” Diallo expressed confidence in the President’s responsiveness to the needs of the Guinean people.
The demand for a dedicated ministry stems from a history of shifting priorities regarding human rights within the Guinean government. Under the previous administration of Alpha Condé, a ministry overseeing citizenship and human rights was established. However, this department was subsequently abolished under President Doumbouya’s leadership, with responsibility for human rights issues transferred to the Ministry of Justice.
This restructuring has drawn criticism from observers and human rights defenders, who argue that consolidating human rights oversight within the Ministry of Justice may dilute its focus and effectiveness. The move is seen by some as a step backward in the country’s commitment to safeguarding fundamental freedoms.
The current situation highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the best approach to protecting human rights in Guinea. The establishment of a dedicated ministry would signal a renewed commitment to these principles and provide a centralized body responsible for addressing the challenges facing the nation.
