Feb 24 • 12:52 UTC 🌍 Africa RFI Afrique (FR)

Massacre of September 28, 2009 in Guinea: Justice Requests the Release of Three Defendants

A Guinean court has ordered the release of three military defendants charged in connection with the September 28, 2009 massacre after deeming their referral to trial as invalid, prompting an appeal from the prosecution.

In a significant legal development regarding the notorious September 28, 2009 massacre in Guinea, a court in Dixinn has ruled to release three military personnel accused of complicity in murder and rape, citing procedural irregularities. The defendants, Georges Oulémou, Jean-Louis Kpoghomou, and Thomas Touaro, were implicated in a case that has been a critical issue of justice and accountability in Guinea, where hundreds of protesters were killed or assaulted during a public demonstration. The defense celebrated this ruling as a procedural victory, highlighting concerns over the legality of the charges brought against their clients.

The legal proceedings have been fraught with controversy and procedural complications. The judge overseeing the case found the referral order signed in October 2023 to be 'null,' halting the trial before it could delve into substantive arguments. This ruling not only stalls the prosecution's efforts to achieve justice for the victims of the 2009 massacre but also raises questions about the integrity of the judicial process in Guinea, where such cases have often been marred by delays and perceived injustices. The prosecution and civil parties have announced their intention to appeal the court's decision, indicating that the fight for accountability is far from over.

This decision echoes a broader struggle in Guinea as survivors and victims’ families seek justice for the atrocities committed during the massacre. While the defense's victory may seem like a win for due process, it also underscores the challenges encountered in achieving legal resolutions in cases tied to human rights violations. The unfolding legal battle continues to draw international scrutiny, reinforcing the need for robust mechanisms to address past abuses and provide reparative justice for affected communities.

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