Conakry, Guinea – Former Guinean military ruler Moussa Dadis Camara, who was serving a 20-year prison sentence for his role in the 2009 massacre, has been granted a presidential pardon on health grounds.
The decision was announced Friday via a decree read on national television by General Amara Camara, spokesperson for the country’s junta leader.
“Upon the proposal of the Minister of Justice, a presidential pardon is granted to Mr. Moussa Dadis Camara for health reasons,” the decree stated.
Camara was convicted last July for crimes against humanity linked to the September 28, 2009, massacre, one of Guinea’s darkest chapters. On that day, at least 156 people were killed during a crackdown on an opposition rally, with hundreds more wounded and at least 109 women subjected to sexual violence, according to a UN-backed investigation. The violence extended over several days, with detainees reportedly tortured. Human rights groups believe the death toll may be much higher, as only 57 bodies were officially recovered.
The former leader was found guilty under the principle of superior responsibility, with the court ruling that he failed to prevent or punish those responsible for the massacre. Seven others received sentences of up to life imprisonment for their roles in the attack.
Camara’s pardon follows an announcement earlier this week by the ruling junta’s leader, General Mamadi Doumbouya, that victims of the 2009 massacre would receive compensation. The government has pledged to implement court-ordered reparations ranging from $23,100 to $173,300, depending on the case.
While the junta, which seized power in a 2021 coup, permitted the landmark trial to proceed, its latest actions have raised concerns about democratic freedoms in Guinea. Opposition voices have been suppressed, with many activists detained or facing legal action, protests against military rule banned, and several media outlets shut down.
