Conakry: A disputed refereeing decision during a soccer match in Nzerekore, southeast Guinea, triggered violence and a deadly crush that claimed 56 lives, according to the government’s provisional toll. The incident occurred during the final of a tournament held in honor of Guinea’s military leader, Mamady Doumbouya.
Violence Erupts After Controversial Call
The chaos began in the 82nd minute after a controversial red card was issued. Fans reacted by hurling stones, leading to widespread panic. “The stone throwing started, and the police joined in, firing tear gas. In the rush that followed, people were trampled—girls and children among them. It was horrible,” said witness Amara Conde in a phone interview.
Footage verified by Reuters showed dozens scrambling over walls to escape the turmoil. A police source described the crowd surge at exits as “deadly,” with many victims trapped in the chaos.
Government Promises Probe Amid Criticism
The Guinean government issued a statement promising a thorough investigation into the tragedy. However, opposition voices criticized the event’s organization. Former President Alpha Conde labeled the tournament “irresponsible,” especially given the country’s current tensions and political uncertainty.
Opposition coalition, the National Alliance for Change and Democracy, accused authorities of using tournaments like this to garner political support for Doumbouya while ignoring commitments under the transition charter.
Political and Social Tensions Boil Over
The military junta, which seized power in a 2021 coup, had promised elections by 2024. However, delays have heightened public frustrations, leading to occasional deadly protests. Human Rights Watch released a report accusing Guinea’s security forces of excessive force against protesters and suppressing dissent.
The junta has yet to respond to these allegations or the opposition’s criticism over the stadium disaster.
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Historical Context of Stadium Disasters
This tragedy adds to the list of deadly soccer-related disasters across the continent. Efforts by the Confederation of African Football and FIFA to address overcrowding and improve safety have yet to eliminate such risks.
Videos shared online showed the aftermath, with rows of victims lying on the ground, many of them minors. Officials reported that parents retrieved some bodies before an official count could be completed.
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This incident underscores the need for enhanced stadium safety measures and highlights the dangers of mismanaged events during politically charged times.
