Senegal closes its diplomatic missions in world capitals after protests
DAKAR, Senegal – The West African country of Senegal has closed its diplomatic missions abroad following attacks on their premises.
This was announced by the country’s Foreign Ministry after protesters attacked the missions in Bordeaux, Milan, Paris, and New York.
Foreign Minister Aissata Tall Sall described the move as a precautionary measure to prevent any damage.
“This precautionary measure was taken following a series of aggressions that caused serious damage,” he said in a statement.
Tensions are high in the country following the sentencing of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko to two years in prison.
At least 16 people have been killed and more than 350 injured in clashes that have continued for three days.
The protests have spread abroad.
Media reports in Italy said that protestors attacked Senegal’s Milan consulate on Monday.
About 40 Sonko supporters carrying flags and anti-government symbols ransacked the premises, attacked the consul general and set a fire before police intervened.
Sonko was charged with raping and threatening to kill Adji Sarr, an employee of a beauty salon in Dakar, in 2021.
However, the court acquitted him of the rape charges.
But sentenced him to two years in prison for corruption of youth and barred him from running in next year’s upcoming presidential election.
Sonko had run third against President Macky Sall in the 2019 elections.
He said the case against him was politically motivated to prevent him from running in 2024.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
