Senegal Frees Political Figures Sonko & Faye Ahead of Elections
The chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) holds the roles of the AU’s primary executive officer and legal spokesperson, while also serving as the commission’s principal financial officer.
Their liberation was anticipated following the enactment of an amnesty statute by parliament on March 6, as authorities aimed to alleviate tensions after their failed attempt to delay the election by 10 months.
RTS provided no additional information, and the whereabouts of the duo following their release remained uncertain.
Thousands of backers gathered in Dakar’s capital to rejoice, echoing Sonko’s name amid the congested streets surrounding his residence. Among them, some ignited flares, danced, or honked their vehicle horns in jubilation.
“We’ve been waiting for this day for so long. Prayed for it,” said health worker Fatima, 52, who gave only her first name. She had rushed to join the crowd when she heard Sonko and Faye were free.
“I believe Sonko can change the country,” she said.
Sonko has urged his followers to support Faye in the presidential competition, causing worry among rivals due to Sonko’s significant popularity, especially among the youth who are discontented with economic challenges and unemployment in the 17-million-strong West African nation.
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Supporters of Sonko’s disbanded Pastef party, along with individuals from other political parties, united to create a coalition and selected Faye as their candidate in November. Sonko, who alleged that his disqualification stemmed from a politically driven defamation conviction, was barred from participating, a claim refuted by authorities.
Faye, formerly obscure and also detained, remains eligible as there hasn’t been a verdict against him yet regarding accusations such as defamation and contempt of court.
In Senegal, although there aren’t any publicly available election opinion surveys, Faye is regarded as a formidable candidate among the 19 contenders competing to take over from President Macky Sall, who is relinquishing office after serving two terms.
Earlier in the day, Seydi Gassama, the leader of Amnesty International Senegal, stated that authorities aimed to hinder Faye’s prospects in the election by incarcerating him. They perceived him as the primary challenge to the candidacy of Amadou Ba, the ruling coalition’s representative.
“Regrettably, we’re at this point because … it shows that we’re not ready to organize a free and democratic election,” Gassama told Reuters ahead of Sonko and Faye’s release.
Senegal Frees Political Figures Sonko & Faye Ahead of Elections
