NAIROBI (KAAB TV) – A wave of violence swept across Senegal’s major cities as police officers killed three people, including a 16-year-old boy, and detained hundreds during a crackdown on protests in Saint-Louis, Dakar, and Ziguinchor on February 9th and 10th.
The protests, primarily against the postponement of presidential elections, escalated into a harrowing display of state repression, as reported by Amnesty International.
Samira Daoud, Regional Director for West and Central Africa at Amnesty International, expressed deep concern, stating, “Senegalese authorities continue to display utter disregard for peaceful dissent.” She emphasized the urgent need for thorough investigations into the lethal use of force against protestors, demanding accountability for those responsible.
The tragic accounts of victims further highlight the brutality inflicted upon protestors. Alpha Yoro Tounkara, a 22-year-old student, was fatally shot in Saint-Louis while peacefully marching with fellow students.
Modou Gueye, a 23-year-old hawker, met a similar fate in Colobane, his brother recounting the horrific details of his shooting. Landing Camara, a 16-year-old, tragically lost his life after being shot in the head by security forces in Grand-Dakar.
Journalists face targeted violence
Moreover, journalists covering the protests faced targeted violence from law enforcement. Mor Amar and Absa Hane, among others, endured assaults and arrests while carrying out their duties, shedding light on the authorities’ flagrant disregard for press freedom.
Seydi Gassama, Executive Director of Amnesty International Senegal, condemned the crackdown, affirming, “This brutal crackdown shows the lengths to which authorities are prepared to go to stifle human rights and media freedom.”
The suspension of presidential elections by President Macky Sall on February 3rd sparked renewed demonstrations, met with an alarming escalation of state violence.
Despite Senegal’s obligations under international human rights treaties, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, such violations persist with impunity.
As calls for justice echo across the nation, Senegal stands at a critical juncture, tasked with upholding fundamental freedoms and ensuring accountability for all acts of violence and repression.