The Guinean government has reportedly rejected Liberia’s apology for an incident involving a Guinean woman, Zainab Bah, and her baby, who were assaulted by Liberian police officers. Despite Liberia’s efforts to address the situation, Guinea’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Morissanda Kouyaté, has emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the investigation.
Liberia’s President Joseph Boakai has expressed regret over the incident and ordered an independent investigation to ensure accountability and transparency. A Liberian diplomatic delegation, led by Ambassador-at-Large Sheikh Al-Moustapha Kouyate and Liberia’s Ambassador to Guinea, H.E. Forkpa Gizzie, met with Guinea’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to convey President Boakai’s concern and reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to strong diplomatic ties with Guinea.
However, Guinea’s Foreign Minister has expressed serious concern over the matter, while emphasizing the importance of ensuring accountability and transparency in the investigation. Dr.Kouyaté has requested that the results of the investigation be shared transparently and without delay. He also mentioned that his country is deeply disturbed by the viral video that emerged, showing a Guinean woman being raped by members of the Liberian police.
Meanwhile, Chief Imam of Liberia Sheikh Ali Krayee has warned that Liberia is “sitting on a time bomb” and emphasized the need for tranquility and unity in the country. Krayee urged citizens to unite in prayer for the nation, highlighting the importance of patience and reflection in addressing the current situation.
The incident has strained relations between Liberia and Guinea, with both countries having a complex history of coups and civil wars. The outcome of the investigation and the response of the Liberian government will likely play a significant role in shaping the future of the relationship between the two countries.
In November 2024, Liberia and Guinea were on the brink of war after a Guinean national, Abraham Khalil Cherif, was arrested in Liberia and extradited to Guinea without due process. Cherif is accused of recruiting former Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) rebels to overthrow the Guinean government. The Guinean government sent a team of commandos to Liberia to retrieve Cherif, sparking tensions between the two countries.