Since his detention on July 31, the political opposition figure of Senegal has been continuing his hunger strike. Ousmane Sonko has refused medical treatment for the past five days to protest against his arrest on July 28 for incitement to insurrection. Despite the deterioration of his health, several opposition politicians are concerned about his fate.
This Wednesday, August 16, 2023, marks 17 days since Ousmane Sonko last ate. The Senegalese opposition leader continues his hunger strike after being charged with seven counts that called for rebellion. The opposition coalition Yewwi Askan Wi is worried about his health condition.
It is worth recalling that Ousmane Sonko was hospitalized in Dakar on August 6 due to his precarious health. Despite this, the leader of the dissolved Pastef party does not change his stance. Habib Sy, the president of the leaders’ conference of Yewwi Askan Wi, expresses his concerns: “Ousmane Sonko continues the hunger strike and categorically and systematically refuses any medical care. We are worried because the battles he engages in, he takes them to the end. And no one can predict the consequences of a deterioration, given his health.” He stated.
“From the Senegalese state, we don’t ask for much, except for the respect of Ousmane Sonko’s rights and freedoms. In all these matters, his rights have been violated, his freedoms have not been respected. For a country that claims to be a democratic state, the setback is there, observed by everyone.” He concluded.
