…By Henry George for TDPel Media. Clashes across Senegal have resulted in the deaths of nine individuals following the sentencing of prominent opposition leader Ousmane Sonko to two years in prison.
The conviction, based on charges of “corrupting youth,” may potentially disqualify Sonko, President Macky Sall’s strongest rival, from running in next year’s presidential election.
Divided Nation and Violent Outbursts
The case of Ousmane Sonko has deeply divided Senegal, leading to sporadic yet deadly violence that has tarnished the country’s reputation for stability.
Shortly after Thursday’s verdict, clashes erupted between protesters and police, with buses being set ablaze in the capital city of Dakar.
Similar disturbances were reported in other locations, including Ziguinchor, where Sonko has served as mayor since 2022.
Interior Minister Regrets Loss of Life
On national television, Interior Minister Antoine Diome expressed regret over the violence that resulted in the destruction of public and private property, along with the unfortunate loss of nine lives in Dakar and Ziguinchor.
Two police officials, speaking anonymously to AFP, disclosed that at least three deaths occurred during demonstrations in Ziguinchor, and a policeman was stoned to death by young protesters in the capital.
Sonko’s Political Rise and Controversial Arrest
Ousmane Sonko, a former civil servant, gained prominence during the 2019 presidential elections, finishing third with a campaign focused on criticizing President Sall and the ruling elite.
Sonko has portrayed Sall as corrupt and a potential dictator, while the president’s supporters label Sonko as an instigator of unrest.
Sonko’s initial arrest on rape charges in 2021 sparked days of clashes that claimed the lives of at least 12 individuals.
Uncertainty Surrounding Sonko’s Future and Calls for Protests
Sonko, aged 48, did not attend his trial and was absent when the verdict was announced.
Currently blocked inside his Dakar residence by security forces after being detained over the weekend, Sonko’s arrest may occur “at any time,” according to Justice Minister Ismaila Madior Fall.
In response to the court’s decision, Sonko’s party called on the Senegalese people to take to the streets, resulting in violent confrontations between young protesters and police, causing further damage and disruptions.
Widespread Unrest and Restricted Internet Access
Protests and violence extended beyond Dakar, with young protesters targeting public properties, burning tires, and creating obstacles in the streets.
Reports of trouble emerged from Casamance, Mbour, Kaolack, and St Louis as well. In addition, access to several social media and messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube, faced severe restrictions in Senegal.
The internet monitoring organization Netblocks expressed concerns over the limitation of public communication.
Sonko’s Political Future Hangs in the Balance
Attention is now focused on whether Sonko’s conviction under the electoral code will hinder his candidacy in the upcoming presidential election.
The charge of “corrupting youth” refers to encouraging the “debauchery” of an individual under the age of 21.
Sonko was acquitted of rape and death threat charges.
Sonko maintains his innocence, claiming that the president is manipulating the judiciary to undermine his political career—a claim the government denies.
Sentences and Damages Awarded
Alongside Ousmane Sonko, the owner of the beauty salon where the alleged incidents occurred, Ndeye Khady Ndiaye, was also sentenced to two years in prison for incitement to debauchery.
However, she was acquitted of complicity in rape. Both Sonko and Ndiaye are required to pay a fine and jointly compensate the complainant with a substantial amount.
Despite satisfaction with Sonko’s guilt, the complainant’s lawyer expressed dissatisfaction with the damages awarded, considering the suffering endured by the complainant since the scandal emerged two years ago.
The political landscape in Senegal remains tumultuous as the country grapples with the aftermath of Sonko’s conviction and the violent fallout it has triggered.
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