Conakry, Guinea – (African Boulevard News) – The Guinean press associations have accused the ruling junta of censorship and blocking of access to news sites, in a tense context of political instability. According to press reports, the junta has restricted or blocked access to several news sites and popular social networks.
The move to restrict and block news sites and social media platforms has raised concerns among media and free speech advocates, who view it as a blatant attempt to muzzle the press and stifle dissenting voices. The move comes on the heels of the junta seizing power in a military coup in October 2021, and amid fears of a crackdown on the media in Guinea.
The Guinean Association of Private Press Editors and Publishers (AGEPI) has condemned the censorship and called for the immediate restoration of internet access to news sites and social media. AGEPI said in a statement that the censorship was a “violation of freedom of expression and the press, and a serious blow to democracy”.
Similarly, the Guinean Union of Journalists (UJG) has also condemned the censorship and called on the junta to respect press freedom and the right to access information. “We urge the junta to immediately lift the restrictions on access to news sites and social networks and allow journalists to carry out their work without fear or intimidation,” said UJG President Mamadouba Paye Camara.
The move to block access to news sites and social media platforms is seen as part of a wider crackdown on dissent and opposition voices in Guinea, as the junta seeks to consolidate its grip on power. The junta has already arrested and detained several opposition leaders and activists, and imposed restrictions on civil society and political activities.
Guinea has a history of political instability and military coups, and this latest move is seen by many as a setback for the country’s fragile democracy. The international community has also expressed concerns over the junta’s actions, which could undermine the efforts to restore democratic governance in Guinea.
In conclusion, the Guinean press associations have accused the junta of censorship and blocking of access to news sites and social media platforms. The move is seen as a violation of press freedom, freedom of expression, and a blow to democracy in Guinea. The international community has called on the junta to respect democratic principles and allow journalists to carry out their work without fear or intimidation.
