Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has publicly criticised a Moroccan court ruling that sentenced 18 Senegalese football supporters to prison terms following a pitch invasion during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in January. The case has sparked a diplomatic row between the two West African nations.
The supporters were convicted of violence and property damage after clashes with security during the highly charged final between Senegal and Morocco. The incident occurred following a contentious penalty decision in the match, which Senegal eventually won 1-0 after extra time. Some Senegalese players also temporarily left the pitch amid the disturbance.
Last Thursday, a Moroccan court sentenced the individuals to prison terms ranging from three months to one year, coupled with fines of up to $545. Speaking before the Senegalese parliament, Sonko stated that the matter “seems to go beyond the realm of sport, and that is regrettable.” He emphasised that for nations that consider each other friends, such developments are unacceptable.
Sonko asserted that Senegal had undertaken all necessary diplomatic efforts to secure the release of its citizens. He condemned Morocco’s handling of the case, claiming it “does not honour” the bilateral relationship. The Prime Minister indicated that Senegal would prefer a royal pardon from Moroccan authorities. Failing that, he noted that existing bilateral agreements could permit the supporters to serve any custodial sentences in Senegal.
The match itself was marred by the post-game disruption, which overshadowed a historic victory for Senegal. The legal proceedings against the fans have now extended a sports rivalry into the diplomatic arena. Observers note that the outcome tests the resilience of regional cooperation and the protocols for handling cross-border incidents during major continental tournaments.
The situation remains a point of formal contention between Dakar and Rabat, with potential implications for future sporting engagements and mutual consular relations between the two countries.
