Senegal Must Ensure Justice for Protest Victims After Violent Repression

Amnesty International demands justice for victims of Senegal’s violent protests (2021-2024) on the anniversary of the amnesty law. This law impedes accountability for security forces’ actions during demonstrations, which resulted in over 65 deaths. Advocates stress the need to repeal the amnesty law to uphold rights and provide reparations. Financial support for victims has been initiated but is deemed insufficient without legal justice.

Senegalese authorities are urged to deliver justice, truth, and reparations to the victims of violent repression that occurred during protests from 2021 to 2024, as emphasized by Amnesty International. This appeal coincides with the first anniversary of an amnesty law passed on March 6, 2024, shielding security forces from prosecution for actions linked to politically motivated demonstrations during this timeframe.

The protests, sparked by the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, were marked by severe police brutality. Amnesty International documents indicate that at least 65 individuals lost their lives, primarily due to gunfire, with approximately 1,000 others injured and 2,000 detained. The organization highlights that accountability for security personnel who employed excessive force is crucial for delivering justice to the victims.

Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s interim regional director for West and Central Africa, stated that the amnesty law must be removed to enable the prosecution of security forces responsible for unlawful actions during protests. Furthermore, Seydi Gassama, executive director of Amnesty International Senegal, noted that while financial assistance to certain victims is a positive step, it fails to address their quest for justice or prevent future violations.

Protests began in March 2021 following Sonko’s arrest and persisted over three years amid ongoing investigations and opposition to President Macky Sall’s attempts to secure a third term. During the campaign for the early legislative elections in November 2024, Prime Minister Sonko pledged to repeal the amnesty law to ensure justice for protest victims.

In 2024, the Senegalese government initiated financial assistance for victims of arbitrary detentions, later extending support to families of those killed during demonstrations. The Ministry of Family and Solidarities reported 79 deaths and identified 2,172 former detainees eligible for aid. While this assistance was provided outside a judicial context, it involved consultations with civil society, including Amnesty International.

Amnesty International continues to criticize the amnesty law and urges the Senegalese government to protect the rights to peaceful expression and assembly as part of its ongoing campaign, “Protect the protest.”

In conclusion, the urgent call from Amnesty International highlights the need for the Senegalese authorities to ensure justice and accountability for the victims of the violent protests from 2021 to 2024. The recently passed amnesty law presents significant barriers to this endeavor. While initiatives for financial assistance have been undertaken, they do not replace the fundamental requirement for justice and the guarantee against future human rights violations. The reaffirmation of democratic principles and the protection of citizens’ rights remains crucial for Senegal’s political landscape.

Original Source: www.amnesty.org