Guinea’s Junta Pardons Camara Over Health, Humanitarian Conviction

Guinea’s junta leader has pardoned former military ruler Moussa Dadis Camara for “health reasons,” according to a decree read on state television late Friday.

The pardon comes after Camara was convicted last year of crimes against humanity for his role in the 2009 stadium massacre.

Camara, who seized power in a 2008 coup, was sentenced on July 31, 2024, to 20 years in prison for the killings of at least 157 people during a pro-democracy rally in the capital, Conakry.

On September 28, 2009, tens of thousands had gathered to urge Camara not to run in the upcoming presidential election. Security forces opened fire, used tear gas, and charged the crowd, leading to a deadly stampede.

Prosecutors said at least a dozen women were raped by security forces. Camara, 61, was convicted alongside seven other military commanders.

Guinea’s current military government announced Thursday that it would cover the court-ordered compensation for victims.

That includes at least $2 million for rape survivors and $18 million for the families of those killed or missing, according to newsmen calculations.

Junta leader Mamady Doumbouya, who took power in a 2021 coup, authorized the pardon, further cementing the country’s ongoing political turmoil.

Reuters/Patience Ameh