Nearly four months have passed since the contentious Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final – a match initially won by Senegal after extra time (1-0), only to be controversially awarded to Morocco (3-0) by the CAF appeals jury. Despite the passage of time, the plight of Senegalese supporters incarcerated in Rabat remains unchanged. While three individuals have been released, the primary instigators, who reportedly stormed the pitch to confront stadium security and subsequently the police, face a prolonged period behind bars.

During a recent television interview, Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, addressed the ongoing situation concerning the Lions of Teranga fans, who received sentences ranging from six months to one year in prison. “It would be a misconception to believe we haven’t done enough for our supporters held in Morocco. They have my full backing,” the Head of State asserted, as reported.

President of Senegal engaged King of Morocco in appeal for clemency

Senegalese authorities have diligently pursued every avenue to secure the release of the supporters apprehended following the January 18 encounter in Rabat. “We must respect the judicial processes of other nations. However, we recognize that their convictions are unduly harsh and unjust. Typically, such incidents conclude with fines… This situation, however, transcends the usual sporting context,” President Bassirou Diomaye Faye noted.

The Senegalese government subsequently endeavored to de-escalate tensions with the Cherifian Empire, which maintained an uncompromising stance after witnessing scenes of rare violence for a major football competition. Senegal opted not to appeal the judicial rulings. “I have personally requested the King of Morocco to pardon our supporters. We have initiated mediation with all relevant stakeholders… We even activated the religious dimension,” explained the President of Senegal, who corresponded directly with Mohamed VI. Despite these extensive efforts, the situation regrettably remains unresolved.