The United Nations has officially expressed deep concern regarding the safety of civilians in Guinea. This intervention follows the targeted abduction of Elie Kamano’s family, relatives of the prominent reggae artist and vocal opposition figure.
The distressing incident occurred at the singer’s residence in the capital, Conakry. Armed assailants stormed the property, forcibly removing four individuals. The victims include two of Kamano’s sons, both of whom are minors.
International Pressure Mounts
Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, has called on the government to take immediate action. A spokesperson for the organization urged Guinean authorities to intervene without delay.
The UN is demanding “all necessary measures” to secure the safe return of the hostages. Furthermore, they have called for a credible, transparent investigation into these enforced disappearances.
Kamano Accuses the President
Currently living in exile, Kamano released an emotional video plea demanding freedom for his children. He directly blamed the country’s leadership for the raid. Specifically, he accused President Mamady Doumbouya of orchestrating the attack to silence dissent.
“Release my family and all the other people who have been abducted for a very long time,” Kamano implored.
Election Tensions Rise
This kidnapping occurs during a volatile period for the West African nation. A military junta has governed Guinea since the September 2021 coup that ousted Alpha Condé. Since then, observers have reported a spike in arbitrary arrests.
Tensions are particularly high as the country prepares for crucial December elections. Recent legal rulings have fueled the political fire:
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President Doumbouya has been cleared to run for office by the Supreme Court.
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Major Rivals, such as Lansana Kouyaté and Ousmane Kaba, have been barred from running on technical grounds.
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