Guinea Media Regulator Warns France 24 Over Description of President Doumbouya

Guinea’s media regulator has issued a formal warning to French broadcaster France 24 over its description of President Mamady Doumbouya, accusing the channel of using inappropriate language when referring to the country’s leader.

The High Authority for Communication (HAC) said France 24 had “deliberately” described Doumbouya as a “putschist president” during a broadcast on September 14.

Doumbouya seized power in a military coup in September 2021, overthrowing then-President Alpha Condé. He later contested presidential elections held in December 2025 and was declared the winner in a vote that was conducted without significant opposition.

The HAC said the description used by France 24 failed to take into account what it considers to be Doumbouya’s legitimacy following his election at the ballot box.

The regulator ordered France 24 to make editorial corrections across its digital platforms and warned that further sanctions could be imposed if the broadcaster repeats what it described as the offence.

France 24 had not immediately responded to a request for comment on the warning.

The dispute comes amid continued scrutiny of Guinea’s media environment since Doumbouya took power. His government has faced criticism over restrictions on political activity, freedom of expression and independent media.

The authorities have dissolved political parties, banned demonstrations and introduced restrictions affecting political dissent. Internet and social media access have also been limited at various points since the military takeover.

The HAC also announced the withdrawal of the press accreditation of a correspondent working for Jeune Afrique. The regulator accused the journalist of professional misconduct, although it did not provide further details in the statement.

Doumbouya’s rise to power began with the 2021 coup, when military forces removed Condé after years of political tension surrounding his government. The junta subsequently promised a transition towards civilian rule before Doumbouya entered the presidential race.

His election in December 2025 marked a shift from military rule to an elected presidency, although the circumstances surrounding the vote have continued to attract attention because of the limited political competition.

The HAC’s warning reflects the authorities’ position that Doumbouya should now be referred to according to his status as an elected president rather than by terminology associated with the 2021 military takeover.

The incident also highlights the sensitivity surrounding media coverage of Guinea’s political leadership and the country’s transition following the coup.