Ouagadougou: The High Authority of Communication (HAC) of Guinea has issued a formal notice to the French media channel France 24 for referring to President Mamadi Doumbouya as a "coup leader" in their news edition on September 15, 2026. The HAC condemned this designation, labeling it as "inappropriate" and contrary to the principles of accuracy, impartiality, and balance in news reporting.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the HAC criticized France 24 for disregarding the legitimacy of President Doumbouya, which stems from the presidential election held on December 28, 2025, and his subsequent swearing-in ceremony on January 17, 2026. The authority emphasized that such terminology undermines the dignity of Guinean institutions.

The HAC has demanded that France 24 cease using terms it deems "inappropriate, degrading, and offensive." Additionally, the authority warned that any repetition of the offense or non-compliance with the formal notice could lead to sanctions as outlined by Guinean law.