Bella Bah trial begins in Conakry over defamation charges

The trial of activist and entrepreneur Bella Bah opened on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the Dixinn Court of First Instance in Conakry. Bah faces charges of insult and defamation regarding social media posts. During the proceedings, Bah denied explicitly targeting the First Imam of Conakry, El Hadj Mamadou Saliou Camara, stating he intended to critique religious figures in general rather than insult a specific individual.

Bah admitted to using terms such as ‘dishonest’ and ‘manipulator’ but maintained that his intent was intellectual critique rather than personal insult. While the defense is seeking an acquittal, the public prosecutor has requested a one-year prison sentence.

Notably, Imam Saliou Camara has publicly stated that he has forgiven Bah, referring to him as a son and calling on the Guinean people and the government to show leniency. However, because public action has been initiated, the legal proceedings are continuing despite the victim's pardon. The court is scheduled to deliver its decision on August 19.