Intro:
The spectacular escape of four high-ranking detainees in Guinea, including former head of state Moussa Dadis Camara, shook the country and raised many questions about the impact on the progress of the trial. While some lawyers and human rights activists are calling for the trial to continue, the press is concerned about the safety of other defendants and witnesses. In this article we look at the different reactions to the escape and ask who might be behind this commando operation.
Impact on the trial:
According to Guinée Matin, the escape of the detainees risks having a significant impact on the progress of the trial of the September 28 massacre. Victims acting as civil parties, who were already reluctant to testify, could now fear for their safety. In addition, the Guinean human rights organization emphasizes that the issue of security has always been a major concern and asks the authorities to strengthen security measures for victims and magistrates.
The safety of the other accused:
One of the main points of concern is the safety of the other accused in this case. Guinée Matin fears that the escape will endanger the lives of the other accused. It is essential to create a secure climate to guarantee a fair trial and prevent any form of reprisals.
Claude Pivi on the run:
Among the escapees, Claude Pivi is the only one who has not yet surrendered. According to Le Djély, he could fear for his life, which would explain his flight. Investigations are still underway to determine who were the sponsors and those involved in the escape. Some wonder whether the objectives of this operation go beyond the simple escape of prisoners.
Transition response:
Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya, head of Guinea’s transition, reacted strongly to the escape, dismissing several dozen army soldiers. He believes that there was internal complicity so that a commando could enter a prison reputed to be the best monitored in the country. However, Le Pays warns of a potential boomerang effect and highlights the divisions within the Guinean army.
Paul Biya’s birthday:
November 6 marked the anniversary of Paul Biya at the head of Cameroon for 41 years. The Journal du Cameroun celebrates this longevity by highlighting the progress made under his reign, particularly in terms of political pluralism and democracy. However, the Burkinabè newspaper Le Pays criticizes this power bulimia and underlines the need to prepare for the post-Biya era.
Conclusion:
Escape of Guinea detainees has raised concerns about impact on ongoing trial and safety of other accused. As the search for those responsible continues, it is crucial to guarantee the safety of victims, judges and witnesses, and to maintain the integrity of the trial. At the same time, Paul Biya’s birthday recalls the longevity of his reign in Cameroon, raising questions about the country’s political future.