Amnesty International demands justice and reparations for victims of violent protests in Senegal between 2021 and 2024, following an amnesty law protecting security forces from prosecution. Key figures reveal at least 65 deaths and 2,000 arrests due to excessive force. Advocacy for law repeal continues as initial financial aid proves insufficient.
Senegal’s authorities are urged to deliver justice, truth, and reparations to the victims of protests repressed violently from 2021 to 2024. This plea comes from Amnesty International on the anniversary of the amnesty law passed on March 6, 2024, which shields security forces from prosecution for incidents related to protests under specific circumstances during this period. The protests, sparked by the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, saw the excessive use of force by security personnel, resulting in numerous casualties and detentions.
Amnesty International reports that at least 65 people died from firearms during protests, with over 1,000 injured and around 2,000 arrested. Marceau Sivieude, interim regional director for West and Central Africa, emphasizes the need for accountability, stating that prosecutions are essential for justice, and he calls for the amnesty law’s repeal.
Seydi Gassama, executive director of Amnesty International Senegal, highlights the initial financial aid offered to some victims as inadequate. He argues that these measures do not fulfill the community’s demand for justice or prevent future violence. Gassama insists on the need to repeal the amnesty law and ensure justice for all victims of human rights violations stemming from the protests.
The unrest began in March 2021 following Sonko’s arrest, which fueled ongoing demonstrations against President Macky Sall’s ambition for a third term and the delays of the presidential elections in February 2024. Notably, during the early legislative elections in November 2024, Prime Minister Sonko pledged to repeal the amnesty law.
Financial support was extended to victims of arbitrary detentions and families of deceased protestors, initiated by the Ministry of Family and Solidarities in 2024, citing approximately 79 deaths. This assistance, while a step forward, lacks a formal judicial framework but includes engagements with civil society and Amnesty International. Amnesty continues to advocate for protecting the right to peaceful protest as part of their ongoing campaign.
In summary, the Senegalese authorities face significant pressure to repeal the amnesty law and ensure justice for victims of the violent repression of protests from 2021 to 2024. Amnesty International’s calls for accountability highlight the need for prosecuting security forces responsible for excessive force. While financial support has been initiated for some victims, it alone does not suffice to address the demand for comprehensive justice and protections against future abuses.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
