Senegalese opponent Ousmane Sonko recently announced that he was resuming his hunger strike, a decision he describes as “the only means of resistance” to his current situation. This action aims to express solidarity with all activists imprisoned for expressing their political opinions, as well as to denounce its own arbitrary and electoral detention.
In a message published on social networks, Ousmane Sonko also denounced the incarceration of hundreds of members of his political party and called for an end to these unjust incarcerations.
This decision to resume his hunger strike comes after a recent court decision which reinstated Ousmane Sonko on the electoral lists from which he had been removed, thus giving him the possibility of running in the 2024 presidential election. However, the legitimacy of this restoration of civil rights must still be examined on appeal by the Senegalese Supreme Court.
This new action by Ousmane Sonko raises many questions and provokes various reactions. Some support him in his fight for democracy and freedom of expression, while others criticize his decision to resort to extreme practices such as hunger strikes.
It is important to emphasize that the hunger strike is a powerful means of protest, but one that also carries health risks for the individual undertaking it. In the case of Ousmane Sonko, it is essential that the authorities take his demands into account and ensure his health and well-being during this critical period.
The political situation in Senegal remains tense, with growing tensions between the government in place and the opposition. It is essential that dialogue and mediation mechanisms are put in place to resolve disputes and ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
In conclusion, Ousmane Sonko’s decision to resume his hunger strike highlights the concerns and challenges facing political opponents in Senegal. It also highlights the need for peaceful resolution of conflicts and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.