Over the past few weeks, reports have circulated about the Guinean government revoking between 50 and 100+ mining contracts, sparking fears of a potential paralysis in...
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Guinean Lawyers Strike After Abduction of Prominent Member
On Monday, 23 June 2025, Guinea’s Bar Association declared a two-week suspension of all judicial activities. This decision comes in direct response to the violent abduction of attorney Maître Mohamed Traoré late last week.
Maître Traoré was reportedly kidnapped from his home on the outskirts of Conakry by masked individuals. He was released hours later after being “roughed up”. The incident has sent shockwaves through the legal profession, prompting widespread outrage.
A Voice Silenced?
A former member of the transitional legislative body, the National Transitional Council (CNT), Maître Traoré resigned from his post earlier this year. Known for his candid commentary, he had increasingly voiced criticism of the military government that seized power in a 2021 coup.
The Bar Association strongly suspects that these critical views are directly linked to the assault.
In a public letter, Maître Traoré confirmed his decision to temporarily step away from his legal career to safeguard his family, stating, “I realized my family was being put in danger.”
Bar’s Demands and Official Response
Beyond the judicial strike, the Bar Association has also announced the immediate withdrawal of its members from all government institutions and commissions established by the military regime. Maître Kémoko Malick Diakité, a spokesperson for the Bar, confirmed that a formal complaint would be lodged against the perpetrators, with a dedicated commission formed to oversee the investigation.
In response, Attorney General Fallou Doumbouya issued a statement announcing a “thorough investigation” into the violence, which included “blows and death threats.” He affirmed his office’s solidarity with the Bar and stressed that “all forms of violence against justice professionals are unacceptable,” expressing readiness to meet with Bar representatives to discuss the crisis.
Legal Advice
Although no hearings will be taking place during the strike, Budd’s habitual lawyers will be continuing to provide their advice and assistance to our clients and their insurers.
Information provided by Budd Guinea (budd.guinea-conakry@budd-pni.com)