Guinea’s military government has announced that a long-delayed referendum on a
new constitution will be held on Sunday, 21 September 2025. This vote is
intended as the first step toward a return to civilian rule, which had originally been
promised by the end of 2024. The announcement comes amid growing domestic
and international pressure, criticism over delayed transition plans, and concerns
about restrictions on civil liberties. The vote could also pave the way for changes
to rules barring junta members from future elections.
Author: Tiffany Bright
Civil Society Calls for Rejection of Interpretative Law and Advocates for Dialogue
Civil society organizations in Senegal are urging lawmakers not to vote for the proposed interpretative law of the amnesty law. In a press conference, 20 organizations, including “Y’en a marre,” called for the withdrawal of the bill and the repeal of the amnesty law. They stress the need for inclusive consultations before any decision, arguing that the amnesty law should not be interpreted in a way that leads to unjust outcomes. They also remind lawmakers of their responsibility to the people, not political parties, urging them to reject the bill and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Togo Faces Scrutiny at UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances
Since March 17, the 28th session of the United Nations Committee on Enforced Disappearances has been ongoing in Geneva, with Togo presenting its periodic report on its commitment to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. While the government highlights progress, Togolese civil society organizations express serious concerns about the situation, particularly in the northern region of Savanes, which has faced abductions by unidentified armed groups since 2022. Other issues include arbitrary arrests, restricted access to prisons, and unresolved historical cases of forced disappearances. Despite calls from civil society, the Togolese government has remained silent, leaving the international community awaiting tangible actions to combat impunity and improve transparency.
Liberian Government Revokes AFAA Adoption Agency’s License Over Child Abuse Allegations
The Liberian government, through the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection, has permanently revoked the operating licenses of Americans for African Adoptions (AFAA) and its affiliate, Cradle of Hope orphanage, due to serious child abuse and welfare violations. This decision followed an extensive investigation by the Liberia National Police, which uncovered numerous allegations of child mistreatment, including physical abuse and neglect, at the AFAA orphanage.
The police report revealed that staff members at AFAA routinely subjected children to physical punishment, including forcing them to lift heavy chairs and beating them with wooden spoons. Additionally, AFAA failed to report sexual abuse incidents within the orphanage. The Ministry’s letter, dated February 19, 2024, confirmed the revocation of AFAA’s accreditation, citing the findings from the police investigation.
While AFAA has lobbied for reinstatement, the Ministry of Gender rejected this request, emphasizing the safety and best interests of Liberian children. Furthermore, the Ministry assured that measures would be taken to care for the children previously under AFAA’s care, including evaluating cases for potential reunification with their biological parents or placement in safe homes. The Ministry has also banned all key AFAA staff from working in adoption or childcare services in Liberia.
Despite the serious nature of the findings, the Ministry has not disclosed the full police report, and the public remains uncertain about the full extent of the actions taken to protect the children involved or to hold the responsible parties accountable.