Gambiaj.com – (BISSAU, Guinea-Bissau) – The Military Justice Prosecutor’s Office has authorized lawyers of Domingos Simões Pereira (DSP) to consult with the opposition leader while he remains under house arrest, according to an official order accessed by The Gambia Journal.
Simões Pereira, leader of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), is expected to appear before the Military Court on Friday, February 13.
In the order issued by the Prosecutor’s Office, authorities granted “the request presented by the judicial representatives” of the PAIGC leader.
The document instructs the security body stationed at Simões Pereira’s residence to allow his lawyers access to the premises and to “freely communicate with him, without restrictions.”
The order further directs security officers to ensure his appearance at the scheduled military court hearing and to comply fully with the instructions outlined.
Defense Complaints Over Due Process
Simões Pereira’s defense team had earlier raised concerns about restricted access to their client. They claim they were denied prior contact with him and do not have access to his case file.
The lawyers have also expressed uncertainty about the conditions under which the PAIGC leader will be heard by the Military Court.
The authorization for consultations marks the first formal clearance for unrestricted communication between Simões Pereira and his legal representatives since his detention.
Background to the Case
The PAIGC leader has been under house arrest since January 30. Before that, he spent more than 60 days in detention at Bissau’s Second Police Station.
His detention and subsequent house arrest have heightened political tensions in Guinea-Bissau. The PAIGC has stated that it will not accept decisions from the High Military Command, signaling a deepening standoff between the opposition party and military authorities.
Friday’s hearing at the Military Court is expected to provide further clarity on the legal proceedings against the prominent opposition figure.
