Feb 9 • 12:50 UTC 🌍 Africa RFI Afrique (FR)

Guinea-Bissau: the EU ambassador expelled by the police from the headquarters of the League of Human Rights

The EU ambassador to Guinea-Bissau was expelled by armed police during a visit to the headquarters of the League of Human Rights, which the organization denounced as intimidation.

In Guinea-Bissau, an incident unfolded at the headquarters of the Liga Guineense dos Direitos Humanos (LGDH) where the EU ambassador, Federico Bianchi, was forcibly expelled by police officers. Bianchi was visiting the LGDH for the first time accompanied by the organization's president, Bubacar Turé, when about ten heavily armed and hooded members of the rapid reaction police stormed the premises, asserting their authority without clear justification. This unexpected intrusion led to the expulsion of a small group of individuals present, strikingly highlighting the tense climate surrounding human rights activities in the country.

The reaction from the LGDH to this event was one of strong condemnation, emphasizing that this was yet another instance of intimidation faced by human rights organizations in Guinea-Bissau. They accused the government of stifling civil liberties and undermining the fundamental work these organizations carry out in advocating for the rights of citizens. The lack of an explanation from the ambassador’s delegation further fuels speculation regarding the political motivations behind the police's aggressive actions.

This incident occurs amidst growing concerns regarding human rights in Guinea-Bissau and raises critical questions about the stability of the political environment. The presence of armed police in such scenarios not only instills fear among activists but also signals a troubling trend where government authorities seek to limit the activities of civil society organizations. This incident could have significant repercussions for the relationship between the EU and Guinea-Bissau, particularly regarding future diplomatic engagement and the support for human rights initiatives in the country.

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