No one will make us believe that the tragedy that occurred this 1is december at the Nzérékoré stadium was an accident. Everything was done to ensure that a football match supposed to entertain young people ended with 56 deaths (135 according to the Collective of Human Rights Organizations) and hundreds of injured and missing people.No offense to those in power, there is nothing sporting about this meeting, it is a political exhibition, purely and simply. It was organized at the initiative of the State and not of any sporting organization. Besides, she has a name, The Refoundation Tournament equipped with Mamadi Doumbouya Trophy and at least two ministers honored her with their presence. There is thus nothing spontaneous about it, nothing gratuitous. It’s a political ruse, an electoral scam.
The deaths of Nzérékoré were not victims of a stampede but of political manipulation. This tragic match is part of an electoral campaign which does not speak its name like all the feverish agitation that we are currently observing in the country. Mamadi Doumbouya is considering running for the next presidential election in flagrant violation of the Transition Charter,that’s all.He has not said it for the moment, he is content to emit the eloquent signs which prove it. He is currently concocting a hand-sewn constitution which he intends to soon pass on to the people through a bogus referendum and which will allow him to be elected in the first round with the score we know. Movements of support for more than questionable spontaneity are proliferating from one end of the country to the other. We are mobilizing churches, mosques and of course, the attractive world of music with billions. And like all the pleasures of life, all that remains for young Guineans is football and RAP; we had to add to this circus, the madness of the stadiums.
In Nzérékoré,we were playing the final of the Refoundation Tournament equipped with mamadi Doumbouya Trophy when misfortune happened (it’s funny,we no longer say transition but refoundation). It all started with a banal refereeing error. Disgruntled supporters invade the pitch. the police arrived immediately to throw tear gas canisters. In panic, the crowd rushed towards the only exit door, blocked as luck would have it by the vehicles of the same security forces.Hence the stampedes, the falls, the asphyxiations, hence this poor stadium covered with dead people! What more is needed to engage the State’s obligation? Anyone who organizes a demonstration ensures its security but also criminal and moral liability in the event of excess. This is the basics of the rule!
The Prime Minister says loud and clear that he will set up a crisis unit,that he will open an investigation. But the Guineans are no longer fooled.they have seen enough of Mamadi Doumbouya and his men at work. They no longer believe their lies, they no longer believe their crocodile tears. They were also promised to open an investigation when Foyinké Mengué and Billo Bah disappeared.We certainly know what that resulted in.
In three years in power, this Mamadi Doumbouya is on the verge of equaling the macabre record of his predecessors, he who had sworn to them that justice would be his compass. Not a day goes by without someone dead or missing! Hey, guess who disappeared this Tuesday, December 3, two short days after the tragedy of N’Zérékoré! Journalist Habib Marouane camara, director of Developer, the most virulent duck against Mamadi Doumbouya and his system.
just a coincidence? Even!
Tender Monenembo
What lessons can sports organizations learn from the Nzérékoré stadium tragedy to improve safety measures at events?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Dr. Benita chiro,Expert in Sports Safety and Human Rights
Editor: Good day,Dr. Chiro. Thank you for joining us today to discuss a pressing issue that has recently shaken the football community and beyond. The tragic events at the Nzérékoré stadium, resulting in such loss of life and injury, have left many shocked. What are your initial thoughts on this catastrophe?
Dr.Chiro: Thank you for having me. My heart goes out to the families affected by this tragedy. It’s hard to fathom that a sporting event, which should bring people together in celebration and joy, resulted in such horror. This speaks volumes about systemic issues regarding safety and crowd management in sports events,especially in regions where protocols may not be adequately enforced.
Editor: You mentioned systemic issues and safety protocols. What specific failures do you believe contributed to this overwhelming loss of life?
Dr. Chiro: ther are several layers to consider. Firstly, crowd control measures appear to have been either insufficient or poorly executed. This includes the lack of adequate security personnel to manage a large crowd and ensure safety. Secondly, emergency response protocols seem to have failed; the speed and efficiency of emergency services are crucial in saving lives during crises. Lastly, there seems to be a troubling pattern of negligence from those in power, who prioritize profit and attendance over the safety of attendees.
Editor: It’s alarming to hear that negligence could be a motive behind such tragedies. In your experience, how can stakeholders in the sports industry balance the excitement and revenue generation of major events with the obligation of ensuring public safety?
Dr. Chiro: That’s an excellent question. It starts with establishing a culture of safety that permeates every level of event planning.Stakeholders, including event organizers, government agencies, and law enforcement, need to work closely together to create and enforce comprehensive safety plans.This should involve regular safety drills, proper training for staff, and, crucially, clear communication with the public about what to expect during these events.
Editor: With the heavy casualty figures reported—56 dead according to official sources and up to 135 reported by human rights organizations—do you believe this tragedy will catalyze meaningful change in how sports events are organized?
Dr.Chiro: I sincerely hope so. Tragedies like this frequently enough serve as a wake-up call for many involved in event management and governance. Though, change requires sustained pressure from the community, advocacy groups, and international oversight.We need to ensure that safety becomes a primary concern and not an afterthought. Moreover, a thorough investigation into this incident is imperative, as accountability is essential for preventive measures.
Editor: It sounds like advocacy and community engagement will play critical roles moving forward. What can the average person do to contribute to a safer sports environment?
Dr. Chiro: Advocacy can start from the grassroots level. Individuals can raise awareness about the importance of safety and demand clarity and accountability from event organizers.They can support organizations that focus on human rights in sports and participate in community discussions. Furthermore, engaging with policymakers to support legislation aimed at enhancing safety standards at public events can lead to meaningful change.
editor: Those are actionable insights. Before we conclude, what is your hope for the future of sports safety after such a devastating event?
Dr. Chiro: My hope is for robust reforms that prioritize human life over profit, ensuring that no one should ever face such a tragedy while simply trying to enjoy a game. I dream of a day when the world of sports stands for not only competition but also for the safety and dignity of every individual involved.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Chiro, for your insights and expertise on this critical issue. It’s essential that we continue to shine a light on such matters to foster a safer environment for everyone in sports.
Dr.Chiro: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we keep this conversation going.
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