The leader of the Senegalese opposition, Ousmane Sonko, was brought before an investigating judge on July 31, 2023, following his arrest on July 28. He faces seven charges, including incitement to insurrection. After his hearing in Dakar, the Dean of Judges, Maham Diallo, decided to place him in pretrial detention, also adding a new charge of spreading false news.
The atmosphere was tense in Dakar during Ousmane Sonko’s hearing, the Senegalese opposition leader who has been in custody since July 28. On July 31, 2023, the Dean of Judges, Maham Diallo, followed the Prosecutor’s requisition and charged Ousmane Sonko with seven counts, including incitement to insurrection, endangering state security, association with criminals linked to a terrorist enterprise, conspiracy against the authority of the state, acts aimed at compromising public safety, and creating serious political disturbances.
Additionally, the Dean of Judges added a new charge against Ousmane Sonko, that of theft and dissemination of false news. This last accusation was added compared to the initial requisition by the Prosecutor.
The arrest and charges against Ousmane Sonko have sparked reactions in the country, particularly from his supporters and various civil society actors. Tension is palpable in Dakar as the opposition continues to denounce political maneuvers aimed at silencing the opposition leader.
