Guinea: More than 87 protesters killed

  1. Posted on Tuesday 29 September 2009 - 09:30
    KingsleyKobo
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    Kinsley Kobo, AfricaNews reporter Abidjan, Ivory Coast
    More than 87 people have been killed in the Guinean capital, Conakry when security forces opened fire on protesters gathered at the September 28 Stadium. Government officials said the rally had been banned that opposition activists defied the ban and decided to proceed with the demonstration.
    soldiers
    The demonstrators, including young people, women and notable opposition leaders, were holding a rally to air their grievances against the rumoured candidature of the country’s military leader, Captain Dadis Camara, in the forthcoming presidential elections.

    Some protesters carried signs that read “No to Dadis”, “To hell with a military regime.” Others set furniture on fire as they marched from the outskirts of the capital into the city and later converged at the stadium.

    Local private media estimated the protesters to be about 50,000 composed of mostly youthful people.

    The police were reported to have charged protesters with batons and detained several opposition leaders.

    Captain Camara took power in a coup last December following the death of Guinea's long-time president, Lansana Conte.

    The African Union says it may impose sanctions on Guinea if Camara decides to run for president.

    Opponents have accused Camara and his ruling council of human right abuses and limiting freedom of speech, and also of betraying public trust by his political ambition, which was contrary to what he said when they seized power.

    However, the junta’s supporters say any sanctions on Guinea would be unfair.

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