Amnesty International has called for justice and reparation for the victims of violent protests in Senegal between 2021 and 2024, highlighting issues with a recently passed amnesty law that shields security forces from prosecution. The organization underscores the need for accountability following excessive use of force and the tragic outcomes of protests, advocating for the abolition of the amnesty law and protection of peaceful expression.
Amnesty International has called upon Senegalese authorities to provide justice, truth, and reparations for the numerous victims of violent protests from 2021 to 2024. This statement coincides with the one-year anniversary of the amnesty law, enacted on March 6, 2024, which protects security forces from prosecution for actions taken during demonstrations. The law shields all acts classified as crimes related to politically motivated events within the specified time frame.
The protests, sparked by the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, saw security forces employing excessive and lethal force against demonstrators, resulting in at least 65 fatalities, primarily from gunfire, and approximately 1,000 injuries. Moreover, around 2,000 individuals were detained. Marceau Sivieude, Amnesty International’s interim regional director for West and Central Africa, emphasized that accountability necessitates prosecuting those responsible for excessive force, proclaiming the amnesty law as a significant barrier.
Seydi Gassama, executive director of Amnesty International Senegal, noted that while financial assistance to victims signifies a positive step, it does not fulfill their justice needs nor ensure the prevention of future occurrences. He urged the authorities to abolish the amnesty law and to commit to addressing human rights violations during these protests.
The unrest originated in March 2021 with Sonko’s arrest, continuing for three years amid fears of political manipulation by then-president Macky Sall, including attempts for a third presidential term. In the election campaign preceding the early legislative elections set for November 2024, Sonko promised to repeal the amnesty law if elected. In a significant win, his parliamentary list took the elections on November 17, 2024.
In 2024, the Senegalese government allocated financial aid to some victims through the Ministry of Family and Solidarities. Assistance expanded in January 2025 to include victims’ families, identifying 79 fatalities and 2,172 former detainees requiring support. This initiative, though lacking a judicial framework, involved consultations with political prisoner committees and civil society. Amnesty International continues to advocate for the protection of peaceful protest rights as part of its campaign, “Protect the protest.”
In summary, Amnesty International has urged the Senegalese government to address the human rights violations stemming from protests between 2021 and 2024 by repealing the amnesty law and delivering justice to the victims. Despite some financial support offered to victims, the necessity for comprehensive accountability and reform remains critical to prevent future injustices. Continued advocacy for the right to protest is essential in ensuring these issues are addressed effectively.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
