The echo of opposition protests still resonates in Senegal, where many political detainees are still awaiting trial. According to human rights associations and organizations, there are more than a thousand of them languishing behind bars since the violent demonstrations of June 2023. A worrying reality which arouses the indignation of the population and the mobilization of various rights movements.
It is in this context that, for the first time in several months, a march by opposition supporters was authorized by the Senegalese authorities. Hundreds of Senegalese marched in the streets of Dakar, brandishing banners in the national colors and demanding the release of prisoners of conscience. Among them, many young people, supporters of Ousmane Sonko’s party, Pastef, and leaders of this dissolved political group.
The situation of these detainees is worrying. Some have been behind bars for more than a year and a half, without even having been tried. Their only crime? Having expressed their support for the opposition and their candidate, Ousmane Sonko. The demonstrators therefore demand their immediate release and denounce prolonged and unjustified preventive detention.
The figure of Ousmane Sonko also arouses attention and solidarity. Arrested at the end of July and convicted of “calling for insurrection”, the opponent is considered a political prisoner by his supporters. He is currently on hunger strike and his state of health is considered very worrying. The mobilization for his release intensifies, with demonstrators chanting “Free Sonko” and brandishing signs with his image.
Faced with this tense situation, Senegal finds itself at a critical turning point. Human rights organizations continue to press for the release of prisoners of conscience and for their right to a fair trial to be respected. The opposition demonstrations and the many voices raised demonstrate strong citizen mobilization and a desire to uphold democratic principles.
It is important to remember that freedom of expression and the right to protest are fundamental rights, guaranteed by international and national laws. Senegal, as a member of the international community, is called upon to respect these rights and guarantee an environment conducive to democratic debate.
In conclusion, the situation of prisoners of conscience in Senegal raises serious concerns about respect for fundamental rights. The mobilization of the population and human rights organizations for their release demonstrates the desire to preserve democratic principles. It is essential that the Senegalese government responds to these legitimate concerns and ensures that the rights of all its citizens are respected.