Guinea-Bissau’s public prosecutor has set up a 60-day commission to identify suspects and crimes in the killing of rapper and activist Vigario Luis Balanta, addressing calls for accountability.
The prosecutor’s office announced the commission on Nov. 9. It said the body has 60 days to identify suspects and crimes committed and present its conclusions.
Balanta was killed in March. The military-led government took power in a November 2025 coup and has condemned his killing, saying it could not comment further while investigations were ongoing. Reuters reported that opposition figures and media had pressed for those responsible to be held accountable.
Balanta founded Po’ di Terra, a social and political movement critical of Guinea-Bissau’s repeated coups and violence. Reuters previously reported that Balanta had expressed fears for his safety before his death and that Po’ di Terra went underground afterward.
Po’ di Terra welcomed the commission on Nov. 10 and called for an inquiry conducted openly and independently. Reuters reported that the movement’s new leader, Nado da Cunha, cautioned against using the investigation for political advantage or to improve institutions’ image.
The commission has 60 days to present its conclusions.
