Official Letter to President Donald J. Trump Subject: Urgent Strategic Action Required Regarding the Democratic Crisis in Guinea
Sanco
Official Letter to President Donald J. Trump Subject: Urgent Strategic Action Required Regarding the Democratic Crisis in Guinea
Mr. President,
Allow me to begin by extending my sincere congratulations on your recent election and the renewed confidence of the American people in your leadership. Your presidency underscores the United States’ unwavering commitment to defending not only its national interests but also universal aspirations for dignity, freedom, and peace.
1. Historical Context and Enduring Partnership
The Republic of Guinea and the United States share a long-standing relationship, rooted in America’s recognition of Guinea’s independence on October 2, 1958. Today, this relationship is reflected in the significant contribution of the Guinean diaspora to American society, and in a legacy of cooperation championed by figures such as the late President John F. Kennedy and Guinean leader Ahmed Sékou Touré.
2. Alarming Deterioration of Democracy and Human Rights in Guinea
Since the September 2021 military coup, led by Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, Guinea has witnessed a systematic erosion of democratic institutions and fundamental freedoms. Despite initial promises of a civilian transition, the junta has repeatedly postponed elections. Most recently, the transition has been pushed back with a constitutional referendum scheduled for September 21, 2025, raising concerns about entrenching military rule.
The civic space has dramatically shrunk:
• Enforced disappearances and torture: Prominent opposition leaders, including Oumar Sylla and Mamadou Billo Bah, were abducted by security forces in July 2024, subjected to torture, and remain unaccounted for. Other victims include journalists such as Marouane Camara and traditional leaders like Djeliman Kouyaté (Freedom House, The Guardian).
• Lethal repression: Since protests were banned in May 2022, at least 59 civilians have been killed, including 20 in 2024 alone and three children during recent demonstrations (Human Rights Watch).
• Media crackdown: Independent media outlets have been shut down, and journalists such as Habib Marouane Kamara have been harassed or forcibly disappeared (HRW, AP News).
Freedom House now categorizes Guinea as “Not Free” in 2025, citing severe declines in political rights and civil liberties.
3. Strategic Implications for the United States
The Guinean crisis poses serious risks to West African stability, undermines U.S. credibility as a champion of democratic governance, and threatens economic and security partnerships. Additionally, the recent USAID funding cuts, notably in malaria prevention, jeopardize two decades of health progress and could spark a humanitarian crisis (El País).
4. Recommended Immediate Actions
a. Strengthen Multilateral Diplomatic Pressure
• Lead a coalition with ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations to demand:
• Immediate release of political prisoners.
• A binding electoral timeline under international supervision.
• Maintain Guinea’s suspension from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) until constitutional order is restored.
b. Targeted Sanctions and Accountability
• Apply Global Magnitsky sanctions against junta leaders and their financial networks.
• Freeze assets linked to the junta in U.S. institutions and impose visa restrictions on implicated officers.
• Support investigations by the International Criminal Court into crimes against humanity.
c. Bolster Civil Society and Independent Media
• Reinforce USAID and National Democratic Institute (NDI) programs promoting democratic governance, civic education, and youth/women’s participation.
• Provide targeted support to independent media outlets under pressure.
d. Restore Humanitarian and Health Assistance
• Resume critical funding for malaria prevention to avert a public health disaster, particularly among children and pregnant women.
Conclusion
Mr. President, Guinea stands at a critical crossroads. Your leadership can prevent a humanitarian and security catastrophe, counter regional instability, and reaffirm the United States’ role as a defender of democratic values. I remain available to assist in any initiative that supports the Guinean people during this pivotal moment.
Respectfully,
Lancine Sacko
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