Senegal: Protests likely across country through at least early June following conviction and sentencing of political opposition leader June 1 /update 3

Event

Demonstrations are likely across Senegal through at least early June following the controversial criminal conviction and sentencing of political opposition leader Ousmane Sonko on June 1. Sonko, head of the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF) party, was convicted on charges of "corruption of youth" and sentenced to two years in prison; however, he was acquitted on charges of raping and making death threats against a woman who worked in a massage parlor. Sonko and PASTEF have claimed that the charges and verdict are part of a politically motivated "plot" orchestrated by President Macky Sall to sideline the political opposition. Tight security was reported around Sonko's residence in the capital's Keur Gorgui area and many businesses were closed over concerns of violence June 1.

Clashes reportedly broke out in areas across the country immediately following the June 1 court proceedings. In and around Dakar, demonstrators burned vehicles, set up roadblocks, and clashed with police, with some protesters hurling stones; protest activity was reported in the Rufisque, Pikine, Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD), Yoff, Parcelles Assainies, Guediawaye, and Medina areas, among others. For their part, police fired tear gas at demonstrators in the capital. Related unrest was also reported in Ziguinchor, Bignona, Saint-Louis, Louga, Mbacke, and Mbour; at least two people were killed amid the demonstrations in Ziguinchor. Despite a ban on protest activity by authorities in Dakar, opposition activists may stage additional protests on short notice in the coming days following PASTEF's call for supporters to "take to the streets" to denounce Sonko's conviction and sentencing.

Heightened security and disruptions to transport and business are likely near protest sites. Authorities may suspend Dakar Dem Dikk public transport services on short notice. Disruptions to internet and telecommunications services are possible amid or after periods of significant protest activity. Further clashes between protesters and security forces are possible, especially if activists fail to heed authorities' orders to disperse; security forces may quickly resort to crowd-control measures to forcibly disperse any demonstrations that materialize. Acts of looting and vandalism, including arson, cannot be ruled out.

Context

Sonko's legal and political challenges have previously prompted deadly violence in Senegal. Protests and clashes notably broke out after Sonko received a six-month suspended prison sentence and a fine for his alleged defamation of Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang on May 8. Moreover, clashes broke out in June 2022 after authorities invalidated his party's candidate list for the July legislative elections; the unrest resulted in several deaths. His arrest and indictment on rape charges in March 2021 also triggered riots, vandalism, and looting that left around a dozen people dead.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for violence. Refrain from unnecessary travel in areas where unrest is occurring or scheduled. If travel is necessary in areas where protest activity is occurring, plan for transport disruptions and allow for additional time to reach nearby destinations. If clashes break out, leave the area and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Monitor local media for updated information. Heed all official security and traffic advisories.