Senegal finds itself engulfed in a maelstrom of violent protests, claiming the lives of at least 16 individuals and leading to the detention of numerous others. The turmoil finds its genesis in the recent conviction of Ousmane Sonko, a prominent opposition figure whose presence has sparked three consecutive days of clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
While Sonko, renowned for his unwavering support among Senegal’s youth, managed to escape a rape charge, he was found guilty of corrupting the younger generation—a transgression deemed “immoral” by the nation’s penal code when directed at individuals under 21.
Supporters of Sonko firmly assert that the verdict bears the markings of political machinations, as his formidable challenge to President Macky Sall’s government in next year’s upcoming elections poses a genuine threat.
Arrest Imminent as Conviction Threatens Presidential Ambitions
During the legal proceedings, the 48-year-old Sonko remained absent, secluded within the walls of his residence. However, the justice ministry explicitly conveyed that his arrest looms imminent in the aftermath of the ruling. Upholding his conviction could potentially dash his hopes of participating in the forthcoming presidential race.
Sonko, a former tax inspector, garnered significant attention by securing a commendable third place with 15% of the vote during the 2019 presidential election. Within a 15-day window, should he choose to turn himself in, Sonko retains the opportunity to launch an appeal against the verdict.
It is crucial to recall that Sonko’s prior apprehension on rape charges in 2021 ignited clashes that tragically claimed the lives of at least 12 individuals. Djiby Diagne, one of Sonko’s legal representatives, voiced deep concern about the conviction’s impact on his client’s candidacy, asserting, “Ousmane Sonko’s candidacy hangs in the balance.” Echoing this sentiment, Bamba Cisse, another lawyer involved in the case, highlighted that Senegal’s electoral law unequivocally disqualifies Sonko from candidacy due to his corruption conviction, particularly because it was delivered in absentia, thereby eliminating any avenue for appeal.