Sixteen years after the September 28, 2009 stadium massacre, Guinea’s justice system has begun the second phase of the landmark trial in Conakry.

The new phase opened on Thursday amid a tense legal and political atmosphere, as the case continues to draw national and international attention.

Some of the accused are present in court, while others remain at large, complicating proceedings and raising questions about full accountability.

With key revelations expected, this stage of the trial is seen as critical in establishing responsibility for one of Guinea’s darkest chapters.