A football match in N’Zerekore, Guinea’s second-largest city, descended into chaos on Sunday, leaving dozens dead and triggering widespread unrest. Hospital sources described scenes of devastation, with bodies filling the morgue and hallways of the local hospital.

“There are around 100 dead,” said a doctor on condition of anonymity, citing hospital overcrowding. Another medical worker confirmed “dozens of fatalities.” Disturbing videos circulating on social media, though unverified, captured the aftermath, showing lifeless bodies scattered outside the match venue and streets engulfed in turmoil.

The violence erupted after a disputed referee decision led to fans storming the pitch. Witnesses reported anger spiraling into clashes, with demonstrators later vandalizing and setting fire to the N’Zerekore police station.

Tournament Linked to Junta Leader Mamadi Doumbouya

The match was part of a tournament honoring Guinea’s junta leader, Mamadi Doumbouya, who seized power in a 2021 coup and has since positioned himself as the nation’s president. Such tournaments have become politically significant as Doumbouya eyes a potential run in Guinea’s presidential elections, now expected in 2025.

Doumbouya, who initially pledged to transition to civilian rule by 2024, has extended the timeline. Meanwhile, he has faced growing criticism for suppressing dissent, with opposition figures detained or exiled. Despite a transitional charter barring junta members from running for office, Doumbouya’s supporters have recently called for his candidacy.

A Nation in Turmoil

Guinea, though rich in natural resources, remains one of West Africa’s poorest nations, long plagued by authoritarian rule. The recent violence in N’Zerekore highlights the country’s fragile political and social climate.

N’Zerekore, with a population of around 200,000, has historically been a hotspot for unrest. Sunday’s clashes add to a string of challenges for the junta leader, as Guinea joins other West African nations, like Mali and Burkina Faso, grappling with military-led governments.

The tragedy underscores the volatile nature of Guinea’s political environment as it navigates its prolonged transition to civilian rule.