Senegal: Ousmane Sonko breaks judicial barriers, application under constraints
After a lengthy legal battle, Ousmane Sonko has finally been reinstated on Senegal’s electoral lists. Despite remaining in detention, the 49-year-old opposition leader has submitted his candidacy to the Constitutional Council. A few days ago, Sonko’s official representative was prevented from retrieving the necessary documents from the Directorate General of Elections.
Despite this obstacle, the lawyers persisted in submitting the political opponent’s candidacy. They are confident of a favorable outcome, stating that the Constitutional Council is a judicial body and not a political one, according to Saïd Larifou, one of Ousmane Sonko’s lawyers.
The lawyers of the PASTEF leader are convinced that their client will be able to compete for the presidential seat. Faced with unfavorable judicial decisions, the PASTEF has also activated a plan B.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye has been chosen to represent the PASTEF in the presidential election, even though he is also incarcerated. In June, he was sentenced to two years in prison for debauchery of a minor. Ousmane Sonko himself has been in detention since July on multiple charges.
Engaged in a confrontation with the state for over two years, Ousmane Sonko has faced several episodes of deadly unrest. He has until December 26 to submit his candidacy and collect the necessary endorsements.
