On April 12, 2025, the residence of Bubacar Turé, President of the Guinean League for Human Rights (LGDH), was forcibly entered by unidentified individuals in Bissau. The operation lacked a warrant and occurred in the early hours, causing distress among his family members. Turé, a prominent human rights advocate and jurist, was not present during the raid, and his current whereabouts remain unknown, raising concerns of potential abduction or harm.
The LGDH has condemned the incident, describing it as part of a broader campaign of repression under President Umaro Sissoco Embaló’s administration aimed at silencing dissent. The organization highlighted a pattern of harassment against activists and journalists, noting that Turé had previously received death threats in 2022 following his denunciation of an attempted coup. At that time, armed men intimidated him and other League leaders.
Turé’s tenure as LGDH President, beginning in December 2023, has been marked by his steadfast commitment to defending the rule of law, democracy, and human rights. He has been vocal in opposing corruption, state abuses, and the erosion of civil liberties. His critical stance against authoritarian practices has made him a recurring target of intimidation.
International human rights organizations have urgently called for Turé’s immediate release and for assurances regarding his safety. While some social media users have labeled the incident a “political kidnapping,” these claims remain unverified. The Guinean authorities have yet to issue an official statement, further deepening the uncertainty surrounding the case.
The political climate in Guinea-Bissau remains volatile, characterized by a history of persecution against dissidents. The lack of concrete information regarding Turé’s status has intensified fears of arbitrary detention or enforced disappearance. The international community continues to demand transparency and accountability from the Guinean government.
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