Senegal: Protest activity likely in major cities across country following appeals court ruling against opposition leader Ousmane Sonko May 8

Event

Protest activity is likely in major cities across Senegal over the coming days following a controversial May 8 appeals court ruling against Ousmane Sonko, head of the opposition African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF) party. The ruling handed Sonko a six-month suspended prison sentence and an XOF-200 million (USD-336,000) fine for his alleged defamation of Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang.

Protests and clashes broke out in Dakar on May 8 following the ruling despite an increased security presence deployed around the city. Students at the capital's Cheikh Anta Diop University reportedly staged demonstrations in the vicinity of the campus, with some hurling rocks at security forces who, in turn, fired tear gas to suppress the protest activity. Unconfirmed reports also indicate that protests denouncing the ruling materialized in Ziguinchor, with demonstrators burning tires in areas across the city.

Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business are likely in areas subject to protest activity. Further clashes between protesters and security forces are possible, especially if activists fail to heed authorities' orders to disperse. Acts of looting and vandalism, including arson, cannot be ruled out.

Context

The extension of Sonko's suspended prison sentence from two months - which he received from a lower court in a March ruling on the defamation case - to six months as part of the May 8 ruling will likely prevent him from running for the presidency in the February 2024 election absent a successful appeal with the country's Supreme Court. Sonko has alleged that the criminal charges facing him are "plots" organized by President Macky Sall to sideline the political opposition. His legal and political challenges have previously prompted significant protest activity and deadly violence in Senegal.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for violence. Refrain from unnecessary travel in areas where unrest is occurring or scheduled. If travel is necessary in areas where protest activity is occurring, plan for transport disruptions and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. If clashes break out, leave the area and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Monitor local media for updated information. Heed all official security and traffic advisories.