The return of Senegalese football fans from Morocco was met with scenes of joy and celebration as they arrived back home after receiving a royal pardon. These supporters had previously faced detention due to their involvement in hooliganism during the tumultuous Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final held in January. Their experiences in Morocco were fraught with uncertainty and anxiety, but upon their return to Dakar, overwhelming relief and gratitude filled the air.
Boubacar Diallo, one of the fans, expressed his feelings of surprise and gratitude, stating, "We were wary and uncertain in Morocco, but now we give thanks to God. This release is a surprise." He further shared his thoughts, reflecting on the harsh reality he anticipated, saying, "Personally, I thought I would serve a year in prison and be released on 18 January next year." This sentiment encapsulates the emotional burden they carried while waiting for their fate in a foreign land.
The chaos during the AFCON final in Rabat was marked by Senegalese fans attempting to storm the field, a reaction provoked by a controversial late penalty awarded to the Moroccan team, which led to Senegalese players walking off in protest. Following these events, eighteen fans were sentenced in February to prison terms of up to one year for various charges, including vandalism and violence associated with sporting events. While some fans managed to be released in April after serving part of their sentences, the royal pardon came as a significant relief.
Morocco's Royal Cabinet highlighted the humanitarian reasons behind King Mohammed VI's decision to grant the pardon, emphasizing the historical ties between Morocco and Senegal, particularly during the celebration of the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha. The statement read, "Given the long-standing fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal, and on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, King Mohammed VI has graciously granted, for humanitarian reasons, his royal pardon to Senegalese supporters convicted of offenses committed during Africa Cup of Nations competitions." This gesture was warmly acknowledged by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who praised the Moroccan authorities and the king for their compassion as the nation prepares for the Tabaski holiday.
As reported by africanews.com.
