Guinea’s anti-corruption court began hearing the appeal of former Defence Minister Mohamed Diane on Thursday.
Diane, convicted in December for embezzlement, money laundering, and corruption, is challenging his five-year prison sentence.
Diane, detained since 2022, maintained his innocence during the hearing, calling the charges vague and lacking evidence.
He accused the trial of irregularities and violations of criminal law principles.
The case is part of a wider crackdown by Guinea’s military rulers on corruption following their 2021 coup.
Diane, who served under former President Alpha Conde, has refused to be questioned by the anti-corruption court.
Diane’s appeal follows the recent conviction of former Prime Minister Ibrahima Kassory Fofana, also sentenced for embezzling government funds.
The junta has promised to prioritize combating corruption, targeting over 180 former officials and ministers.
