Why has the conviction of Senegal’s Sonko sparked such anger?

 Demonstrations broke out in Senegal after a court sentenced opposition leader Ousmane Sonko to two years in prison.

He was convicted of “corrupting the youth” but cleared of rape. The charges relate to an incident at a massage parlour in 2021.

Supporters say the violence across the country reflects widespread anger, particularly among young people, who feel ignored by the political elite.

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They say the case against Sonko was politically motivated and was part of a plot to stop him from running for president next year.

Macky Sall’s government denies this and says Senegal is facing an insurrection.

Presenter:

Mohammed Jamjoom

Guests:

Mucahid Durmaz – Analyst with Verisk Maplecroft global risk intelligence consultancy

Marie-Roger Biloa – Chairwoman and CEO of the Africa International Media Group

Borso Tall – Freelance journalist who has reported extensively on Senegal’s political and social tensions