The World Liberty Congress (WLC) has taken note of recent statements by regime-affiliated spokesperson Taliby Dabo, who claimed that forcibly disappeared activists Oumar Sylla (known as Foniké Mengué) and Mamadou Billo Bah are “alive.” Dabo stated:
“You’re the one who thinks they’re missing, but I think it’s for national security reasons. These men you think have disappeared are eating, dressing, sleeping and following the news very well. It’s just that their freedom of movement is restricted.”
Such remarks amount to an acknowledgment that the Guinean authorities are holding them in secret detention, but they provide no verifiable evidence of their condition, location, or safety. Enforced disappearance—detaining individuals outside the protection of the law and denying information to their families—is a serious violation of international human rights law.
The WLC therefore urgently demands:
1. Immediate, independent proof of life for Oumar Sylla and Mamadou Billo Bah.
2. Disclosure of their exact whereabouts and conditions of detention.
3. Their immediate release, unless lawful charges are brought in full compliance with due process.
For over a year, these two respected civic leaders have been missing, with families and colleagues left in anguish and uncertainty. The Guinean regime’s vague assurances cannot replace the obligation to protect their rights and dignity.
About Oumar Sylla (Foniké Mengué)
A member of the WLC Leadership Council and national coordinator of the FNDC, Sylla has long been recognized for his peaceful defense of democracy and human rights. His enforced disappearance represents not only a personal attack, but also a broader assault on civic freedoms in Guinea.
Call to Action
The World Liberty Congress calls upon the Guinean authorities to end this unlawful practice and on the international community to intensify pressure until proof of life is shown and justice is delivered.
