Guinea’s Telecommunications Minister Threatens Media Outlets with Closure

Conakry, Guinea – On May 18, 2023, Guinea’s Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Ousmane Gaoual Diallo, issued a stark warning to media outlets, threatening closure for any radio, television, or online platform that publishes content deemed to "undermine national unity," "stir up community hatred," or incite conflict.

In his statement, Diallo also implied financial pressure could be used as a tool for censorship, noting that “fewer than 2 percent” of media outlets were up to date with state-mandated payments. This remark raised concerns that the government might selectively target media organizations under the pretext of financial non-compliance.

This latest warning adds to the growing climate of media repression in Guinea, where journalists and independent outlets have faced increasing restrictions, legal threats, and shutdowns. Press freedom advocates fear that such statements could be used as justification for silencing critical voices in the country.