Türk Welcomes Verdict in Guinea Stadium Massacre Case, Urges Further Action

The First Instance Court of Dixinn in Conakry issued its ruling on Wednesday, convicting eight men, including former President Dadis Camara, of crimes against humanity.

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk on Thursday welcomed the long-awaited verdict in the Republic of Guinea concerning the 2009 Conakry Stadium massacre, while underscoring the need for continued efforts to uncover the full scope of the atrocities and ensure justice.

The First Instance Court of Dixinn in Conakry issued its ruling on Wednesday, convicting eight men, including former President Dadis Camara, of crimes against humanity. Four additional individuals were acquitted in the case, which has been pending for nearly 15 years.

"After nearly 15 years, the victims, survivors, and their families have the right to full justice and transparency," said High Commissioner Türk. He emphasized the importance of continuing Guinea's journey towards ending impunity and ensuring that all those responsible for human rights violations face justice. Türk also highlighted the need for strengthening Guinea's judicial institutions and guaranteeing their independence to prevent future human rights abuses.

The September 28, 2009, attack on a peaceful political rally at Conakry Stadium resulted in at least 156 deaths, numerous disappearances, and the sexual violence of at least 109 girls and women, including mutilation and slavery. The assault was carried out by security and military forces, and many victims were tortured and buried in mass graves.

In response to the massacre, a UN Commission of Inquiry was established to investigate the events and identify those responsible. The Commission's findings suggested a "strong presumption that crimes against humanity were committed" and identified reasonable grounds to suspect individual criminal responsibility.

Türk called for comprehensive psychosocial and financial support for the survivors and victims' families. The court has ordered those convicted to provide reparations.

Looking forward, Türk stressed the importance of the Guinean Government determining the fate of all missing persons and holding accountable those responsible for enforced disappearances and related violations. "It is crucial for the Guinean Government to address these issues fully," he concluded.