IN response to a series of attacks on its diplomatic and consular missions in various cities, Senegal announced on Tuesday the closure of all its consulates abroad. The attacks, which occurred in Bordeaux, Milan, Paris, and New York, have prompted the Senegalese government to take precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its personnel and property.
Foreign Minister Aissata Tall Sall emphasised the need for these closures, stating, ‘This precautionary measure was taken following a series of aggressions that caused serious damage.’ The attacks on Senegal’s diplomatic missions come at a time of heightened political tensions in the country, sparked by the recent sentencing of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko to a two-year jail term. This verdict has ignited protests in the capital city of Dakar and other towns across Senegal, resulting in fatalities and numerous injuries.
At least 16 individuals lost their lives, while over 350 others sustained injuries during the three days of clashes between protesters and security forces. Unfortunately, the unrest spilled over to Senegal’s diplomatic missions abroad, with the general consulate in Milan experiencing severe vandalism. Passport-making machines and identity cards were destroyed, as confirmed by the ministry.
The closure of the consulates is a temporary measure, with services expected to resume ‘as soon as material and security conditions allow,’ according to Foreign Minister Sall. The safety and security of Senegalese diplomats and consulate staff are of paramount importance, and the government is taking appropriate steps to safeguard their well-being.
In Milan, Italy, the consulate was attacked by Sonko supporters on Monday. About 40 individuals carrying flags and anti-government symbols vandalised the premises, attacked the consul general, and set fire to the building. The police intervened to restore order and bring the situation under control.
Ousmane Sonko, a prominent opposition figure, faced charges of rape and making death threats against Adji Sarr, an employee of a beauty salon in Dakar. While Sonko was acquitted of the rape charges, he was sentenced to two years for corrupting the youth, effectively disqualifying him from running in the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for next year. Sonko, who finished third in the 2019 election against President Macky Sall, claims that the charges against him are politically motivated to prevent his candidacy in 2024.
In related developments, the Communications Ministry of Senegal announced on Tuesday that mobile internet access has been restored across the country. The government had temporarily suspended mobile internet services due to the violent protests, but with the situation gradually stabilizing, access has been reinstated.
Senegal continues to grapple with the aftermath of political unrest, striving to restore order and maintain the safety of its citizens and diplomatic personnel amidst challenging circumstances.
