In a significant development, the ruling junta in Guinea has mandated the prosecution of former president Alpha Condé on charges of "treason." The junta, which came to power through a coup in 2021, has intensified legal action against Condé, who is already facing accusations ranging from corruption to murder.
The justice minister, Alphonse Charles Wright, formally instructed the Conakry public prosecutor to pursue legal proceedings against Condé for alleged acts of treason, criminal conspiracy, and complicity in the illegal possession of arms and munitions. The minister's directive, outlined in a public letter on Monday, points to Condé's purported collaboration with Fodé Moussa Mara, a prominent blogger and Condé supporter, in obtaining weapons and related materials.
Notably, the specifics regarding the nature and quantity of these alleged arms have not been disclosed. Condé, who governed Guinea from 2010 to 2021, has been living in exile in Turkey since his removal from power. His presidency, initially marked by being Guinea's first democratically elected leader, ended amid widespread protests against his bid for a third term.
This latest legal move by the junta further adds to the political uncertainty in Guinea, raising questions about the course of justice and the nation's political future. The junta's commitment to addressing alleged misconduct and restoring stability in the wake of the 2021 coup remains a focal point of international scrutiny.