Guinea Junta Chief Grants Pardon to Moussa Dadis Camara Amid…

Guinea’s junta leader pardoned Moussa Dadis Camara, a former military leader convicted for his role in the 2009 stadium massacre, citing health reasons. Camara was sentenced to 20 years in 2024 for the deaths of at least 157 individuals. The military government also declared it would compensate victims, highlighting the ongoing challenges in Guinea’s political climate after several coups.

Guinea’s junta leader has granted a pardon to former military leader Moussa Dadis Camara, citing “health reasons” after he was found guilty last year of crimes against humanity related to the tragic 2009 stadium massacre. The announcement was made through a decree broadcast on state television. Camara, who initially seized control in a coup in 2008, received a 20-year prison sentence on July 31, 2024, for his involvement in the massacre that resulted in the deaths of at least 157 individuals at a pro-democracy rally in Conakry.

On September 28, 2009, a significant number of citizens flocked to the stadium to urge Camara to refrain from running for president in the following year. Unfortunately, security forces responded brutally, leading to numerous deaths from gunfire, assaults, and chaos. During the proceedings, prosecutors revealed that security personnel also assaulted at least a dozen women.

Alongside Camara, seven additional military commanders were convicted in connection with these events. Following the verdict, Guinea’s military government announced plans to provide compensation to the victims, amounting to at least $2 million for those assaulted and $18 million for the families of the deceased or missing individuals based on reporting by Reuters. Notably, Junta leader Mamady Doumbouya also came to power through a coup in 2021.

In summary, Guinea’s junta leader has granted a pardon to Moussa Dadis Camara, reflecting the government’s response to health concerns despite his documented involvement in the brutal 2009 stadium massacre. The current administration has also committed to compensating victims of the tragedy, signifying a step towards addressing the aftermath of this historical violence. Such actions underscore ongoing complexities within Guinea’s political landscape following multiple coups.

Original Source: www.usnews.com