SENEGALESE opposition firebrand Ousmane Sonko and his endorsed presidential candidate, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, have been freed from prison, igniting fervent celebrations among supporters and adding a fresh twist to the country’s political landscape ahead of the March 24 election, as reported by state broadcaster RTS.
Their release follows the enactment of an amnesty law on March 6 by parliament, a move aimed at defusing tensions after their thwarted attempt to delay the election by 10 months. While specific details of their release remain undisclosed, thousands of jubilant supporters gathered in Dakar, the capital, to express their joy, chanting Sonko’s name and expressing optimism for the future.
Among the crowd was Fatima, a 52-year-old health worker, who spoke of her long-awaited relief upon hearing the news of Sonko and Faye’s freedom. She expressed her faith in Sonko’s ability to bring about positive change in Senegal, saying, ‘We’ve been waiting for this day for so long. Prayed for it.’
Fatima’s sentiment resonated with many others present, with one supporter stating, ‘I believe Sonko can change the country.’
Sonko’s endorsement of Faye in the presidential race has heightened intrigue, considering Sonko’s significant influence, particularly among the youth demographic. Despite Sonko’s disqualification from the race due to a disputed defamation conviction, his backing of Faye underscores a united front against the ruling coalition.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, previously a relatively unknown figure, has emerged as a formidable contender in the presidential race, with no legal obstacles hindering his candidacy. Seydi Gassama, head of Amnesty International Senegal, criticised authorities for what he perceived as attempts to diminish Faye’s chances by detaining him, stating, ‘It’s really regrettable that we’re at this point because … it shows that we’re not ready to organise a free and democratic election.’
As Senegal gears up for a crucial electoral showdown, the release of Sonko and Faye injects renewed energy into the political arena, setting the stage for a closely watched contest to succeed outgoing President Macky Sall.