Over 100 journalists and press freedom organisations on Monday demanded that Guinea’s junta provide answers regarding the fate of journalist Habib Marouane Camara, who has been missing since December.
Camara, who operates the website Lerevelateur224, was reportedly arrested in early December by uniformed men in a Conakry suburb. His disappearance occurred amidst a growing crackdown on freedom of expression by the military junta, which seized power in 2021.
The 105 signatories, comprising 94 journalists and 11 NGOs, stated that “It has been six months since his abduction — his location is unknown” and expressed deep concern for Camara’s health, as he requires daily medication.
They urged authorities to “publicly address this case to shed full light on this abduction and do everything possible to ensure Habib Marouane Camara is released and returns to his loved ones safe and sound.”
The Conakry public prosecutor initiated an investigation into Camara’s disappearance in the same month he vanished.
The junta, led by General Mamadi Doumbouya, has faced increasing criticism from the opposition and civil society for its authoritarian rule.
After overthrowing civilian president Alpha Condé in September 2021, the junta initially pledged to hold a constitutional referendum and transfer power to elected civilians by the end of 2024, but has since reneged on these promises. They have, however, announced a constitutional referendum for September 21.
