Senegalese opponent Ousmane Sonko, imprisoned since the end of July, announced on Tuesday October 17 that he was resuming his hunger strike. This decision aims to demonstrate solidarity with all activists unjustly arrested for expressing their political opinions and who are still detained to this day. In a message published on social networks, Sonko also denounces his own arbitrary and electoral detention, while demanding his release as well as that of hundreds of members of his party.
This announcement comes a few days after the Ziguinchor district court ordered that Sonko be reinstated on the electoral lists from which he had been excluded, thus allowing him to run in the next presidential election. However, this decision is not final, because the Senegalese Supreme Court has yet to rule on appeal on the legitimacy of the restoration of Ousmane Sonko’s civil rights.
This resumption of the hunger strike is symbolic in many ways. By choosing this means of protest, Sonko seeks to draw attention to violations of human rights and freedom of expression in Senegal. It also highlights Sonko’s determination to fight against what he considers to be unjust and undemocratic political practices.
Although some voices are raised to criticize Sonko’s decision, arguing that the hunger strike is an extreme method that can put one’s health at risk, others believe that it is an act of courage and of resistance to injustice. Regardless, this announcement sparks a lively debate within Senegalese society and highlights the political tensions currently reigning in the country.
It is important to emphasize that Ousmane Sonko’s situation is being closely monitored by the international community, which is calling for the release of political prisoners and respect for human rights in Senegal. Human rights organizations continue to denounce arbitrary arrests and intimidation, while calling for the establishment of a transparent and impartial judicial system.
In conclusion, the resumption of the hunger strike by Ousmane Sonko is a strong act which shows his determination to make his voice heard and to fight against political injustices in Senegal. This decision sparks a lively debate and highlights issues related to human rights and freedom of expression in the country. It is crucial that the international community continues to closely monitor this case and press for the release of political prisoners and respect for fundamental rights in Senegal.