Senegal: Call for Justice Amidst Violent Repression of Protests
Amnesty International calls on Senegalese authorities to provide justice to victims of violent protests from 2021 to 2024, emphasizing the need to repeal an amnesty law that protects security forces from prosecution. The violent repression resulted in numerous fatalities, injuries, and arrests. Although financial support has been offered to some victims, it lacks the comprehensive justice and accountability needed.
In light of the violent repression of protests in Senegal from 2021 to 2024, Amnesty International has urged the authorities to ensure justice, truth, and reparation for the victims. This call coincides with the first anniversary of an amnesty law passed on March 6, 2024, which protects security forces for their actions during demonstrations, particularly those tied to the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko.
The law covers all criminal acts related to demonstrations that occurred between February 1, 2021, and February 25, 2024. Amnesty International and civil organizations report at least 65 fatalities, primarily from firearms, more than 1,000 injuries, and approximately 2,000 arrests linked to the protests.
Marceau Sivieude, interim regional director for West and Central Africa at Amnesty International, stated, “Justice, truth and reparation require that security forces allegedly responsible for excessive and illegal use of force during protests be prosecuted.” He emphasized the need to abolish the amnesty law, which hinders justice for the victims.
Seydi Gassama, executive director of Amnesty International Senegal, remarked that while the financial assistance provided to some victims and families is a positive step, it does not suffice in addressing their quest for justice or preventing future violations. He stressed the importance of repealing the amnesty law effectively and restoring justice for victims of human rights abuses throughout the protests.
The unrest began in March 2021 following Ousmane Sonko’s arrest, sparking protests that continued for three years due to ongoing investigations and political tensions surrounding President Macky Sall’s potential third term. During the election campaign for November 2024 legislative elections, Sonko committed to repealing the amnesty law, which contributed to his parliamentary coalition’s decisive electoral victory.
In 2024, some victims of arbitrary detention received financial assistance from the Ministry of the Family and Solidarities. This support extended in January 2025 to families of those killed during protests and to further victims of arbitrary detentions. The Ministry reported 79 deaths and identified 2,172 former detainees who required assistance, although this support was outside judicial processes.
Amnesty International continues to challenge the amnesty law, advocating for the protection of peaceful assembly and expression rights in Senegal as part of its ongoing campaign, “Protect the protest.”
Amnesty International’s appeals signify the urgent need for the Senegalese authorities to deliver justice and reparations to the victims of politically motivated violence. The amnesty law stands as a barrier obstructing accountability for security forces, thus necessitating its repeal. The provision of financial assistance alone fails to fulfill the critical demands for justice and human rights protection, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and reform in the face of past injustices.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
