Senegal’s detained can supporters: president faye’s ongoing appeal to Morocco

Nearly four months have passed since the Africa Cup of Nations final, a match initially won by Senegal with a 1-0 extra-time victory, only to be controversially awarded 3-0 to Morocco by the CAF appeals jury. Despite this, the plight of Senegalese football fans held in Rabat prisons remains unresolved. While a trio of individuals has gained their freedom, key instigators who breached the pitch to confront stadium security and law enforcement personnel could face continued incarceration for an extended period.

In a recent television interview, Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, addressed the predicament of the Lions de la Teranga supporters, who received prison sentences ranging from six months to a year. The head of state emphatically declared, « It would be a misjudgment to assume insufficient action has been taken for our supporters detained in Morocco. They possess my complete backing. »

Senegal’s President appeals directly to Morocco’s Monarch

Senegalese authorities have exhausted various avenues in their quest for the release of these fans, apprehended following the January 18th encounter in Rabat. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye underscored the delicate balance, stating, « While we must respect the judicial systems of other nations, we recognize their convictions as both harsh and unfair. Typically, such incidents conclude with monetary penalties; this situation, however, transcends the realm of sport. »

Subsequently, the Senegalese government endeavored to de-escalate tensions with the Cherifian Kingdom, which remained firm after witnessing scenes of unusual violence for a major football tournament. Senegal chose not to challenge the sentences handed down by the Moroccan judiciary. President Faye further elaborated, « I have personally petitioned the King of Morocco for a pardon for our supporters. We have initiated mediation involving all relevant parties, even engaging the religious dimension. » Despite these multifaceted efforts and President Faye’s direct communication with King Mohamed VI, the predicament remains at an impasse.