Lawyers in Guinea have launched a strike in protest against what they claim is a severe crackdown on dissent by the military regime. The country’s bar association condemned what it termed as “arbitrary arrests” and the clandestine detention of citizens.
Court sessions are reportedly at a standstill due to the strike, which threatens to disrupt a significant trial concerning the 2009 massacre that marked a dark chapter in Guinea’s history.
Scheduled for 31 July, the trial involves Moussa Dadis Camara, Guinea’s former military ruler, facing charges of crimes against humanity related to the killing of over 150 people at a stadium. Despite assurances from authorities that the trial will proceed, uncertainty looms over the reading of the verdict amidst the ongoing strike.
The lawyers’ protest follows the recent arrest of Oumar Sylla and Mamadou Bah, leaders of a citizen movement critical of the junta-led government and advocating for civilian rule. Amnesty International has urged Guinea’s government to release them immediately, disclose their whereabouts, ensure their safety, and grant them access to legal representation and family visits.
International voices, including French politician Jean-Luc Mélenchon, have also called for intervention, citing France’s historical ties with Guinea. The junta has faced criticism for its crackdown on dissent, including media suspensions, internet restrictions, and harsh repression of protests aimed at restoring democratic governance.
The 2009 massacre, where troops attacked demonstrators in a stadium, resulted in numerous deaths and allegations of widespread sexual violence. Camara and other officials implicated have denied the charges against them.