SCORES DEAD IN GUINEA RIOTS
Sep 29th, 2009 by admin
The African Union has threatened Guinea’s military junta with sanctions following reports that at least 128 people were killed during violent riots in Guinea’s capital Conakry yesterday. Security forces opened fire on 50,000 opposition supporters who had gathered in a stadium to protest against the country’s military leader, Captain Moussa Dadis Camara. Witnesses say tear gas, live ammunition and baton charges were used against the civilian population. Earlier police said 87 people had died, but local activists say hospital data confirms a much higher toll. Camara took power in Guinea after a bloodless coup in 2008. He initially had some popular support, but rumours that he may run for president in January’s elections have sparked opposition protests. The African Union has called on Camara to honour his pledge not to stand in the elections and so allow transition to civilian rule.
