Senegalese president appeals for fans detained in Morocco after afcon final

Nearly four months have passed since the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, a match controversially won by Senegal with a 1-0 scoreline in extra time, only to be subsequently awarded to Morocco 3-0 by the CAF appeal jury. Yet, the predicament of Senegalese football supporters incarcerated in Rabat remains unchanged. While three individuals have been granted release, the primary instigators – those who stormed the pitch to confront stadium security and subsequently the police – face the prospect of extended periods behind bars.

During a recent television interview, Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, addressed the ongoing situation concerning these Lions of Teranga fans, who received prison sentences ranging from six months to a year. “It would be a grave error to assume that we haven’t exerted sufficient effort for our supporters held in Morocco. They have my unwavering support,” affirmed the head of state.

President of Senegal seeks royal clemency from Moroccan king

Senegalese authorities have exhausted every avenue in their pursuit of freedom for the supporters apprehended in the immediate aftermath of the January 18 match in Rabat. “One must respect the judicial processes of other nations. However, we believe their convictions are both harsh and unjust. Typically, such incidents conclude with fines… This particular situation transcends the boundaries of sport,” President Bassirou Diomaye Faye emphasized.

The Senegalese government has since strived to alleviate tensions with the Cherifian Kingdom, which adopted an unyielding stance following images depicting violence rarely seen at a major football tournament. Senegal did not challenge the penalties handed down by the Moroccan judiciary. “I have formally requested that the King of Morocco grant a pardon to our supporters. We have initiated mediation with all involved parties… We even activated a religious dimension,” elaborated the Senegalese President, who personally wrote to King Mohamed VI. Despite these extensive efforts, the situation remains at an impasse.