Senegal Takes Steps to Secure Royal Pardon for Detained Supporters
In a significant diplomatic move, the Senegalese government is preparing to request a royal pardon from Morocco following the conviction of several Senegalese supporters who faced legal repercussions after the African Cup of Nations (CAN) final held on January 18, 2026. Following the release of three supporters on April 18, Senegal is actively working on a protocol that will facilitate their return to Dakar. However, this process is contingent upon the approval of psychological professionals dispatched to Rabat to support the released individuals. This measure, deemed essential by the supporters' legal representatives, has received backing from the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) and the Secretary of State for Senegalese citizens abroad.
Attorney Patrick Kabou, representing the supporters, emphasized that while he found the conditions of detention acceptable, he criticized the legal proceedings as arbitrary and underscored the need to move beyond this challenging chapter. The supporters were initially charged with violent conduct against Moroccan law enforcement, destruction of sports facilities, pitch invasion, and throwing projectiles during the tumultuous match.
Efforts to Free Remaining Supporters and Strengthen Ties Between Senegal and Morocco
As of now, 15 Senegalese supporters remain imprisoned in Rabat, prompting their legal team to submit two separate requests for a royal pardon this week. One request is being made by the supporters' legal counsel, while the other is filed by the Senegalese National Human Rights Commission. This comprehensive petition, spanning approximately fifteen pages, argues the absence of substantial evidence to justify the charges and emphasizes the historical ties of friendship between Senegal and Morocco.
On April 17, just a day before the release of the three supporters, Senegal's Foreign Minister Cheikh Niang expressed his regret over what he termed a "painful moment" in Senegal-Morocco relations and committed to enhancing diplomatic efforts in this matter. The situation has brought to light the complexities involved in international relations, especially in the realm of sports, highlighting the need for empathy and cooperation.
As reported by rfi.fr.
