Guinea opposition leader Aliou Bah freed after presidential pardon

Bah released after nearly two years in prison
Guinean opposition leader Aliou Bah has been freed after President Mamadi Doumbouya granted him a presidential pardon. Bah, head of the Liberal Democratic Movement (MoDeL), had been imprisoned since December 2024 after being convicted of offending and defaming the head of state.

217 prisoners receive pardons
Bah was among 217 prisoners granted a reprieve in a decree issued to mark Guinea’s 68th independence anniversary. The decree provides for a full remission of the beneficiaries’ prison sentences.

Bah was serving a two-year sentence
Bah was sentenced to two years in prison in January 2025 over remarks critical of the authorities. His conviction was later upheld by the Court of Appeal in May 2025. His release had otherwise been expected towards the end of 2026.

Opposition leader criticised government
The charges followed comments in which Bah urged Guinea’s religious leaders to speak out about the country’s political situation and described the ruling National Committee of Rally for Development as incompetent. He had been one of the prominent opposition voices challenging the military authorities.

ECOWAS court ordered his release
Bah’s case was also taken to the ECOWAS Court of Justice. In June 2026, the regional court found that Guinea had violated several of his rights, including rights relating to freedom of expression, and ordered his immediate and unconditional release.

Court sought implementation of ruling
On September 25, the ECOWAS court wrote to Guinea’s Supreme Court seeking information on steps taken to implement its June ruling. The request came shortly before Doumbouya announced the presidential pardon.

Guinea under military rule
Doumbouya seized power in September 2021 after overthrowing President Alpha Condé. His government has since faced criticism from opposition groups and rights organisations over restrictions on political activity and dissent.

Opposition parties dissolved
Several major political parties have been dissolved under the military authorities, while demonstrations have been restricted or dispersed by security forces. Critics of the government have also faced arrests, convictions and exile, while some opposition figures have disappeared.

Bah’s party welcomes development
MoDeL said it had taken note of the presidential pardon and welcomed the development with restraint. The party called on its supporters and citizens to remain responsible as the process surrounding Bah’s release was completed.

Political tensions remain
Bah’s release comes amid continuing debate over political freedoms and the return to civilian rule in Guinea. His case had become a significant point of concern for opposition groups and regional institutions.