Why has the conviction of Sonko from Senegal sparked so much anger?

Demonstrations broke out in Senegal after a court sentenced opposition leader Ousmane Sonko to two years in prison.

He was found guilty of “corrupting the youth” but acquitted of rape. The charges relate to an incident at a massage parlor in 2021.

Supporters say the violence across the country reflects widespread anger, particularly among young people, who feel ignored by the political elite.

They say the case against Sonko was politically motivated and part of a plot to prevent him from running for president next year.

Macky Sall’s government denies this, saying Senegal is facing an insurrection.

Presenter:

mohamed jamjoom

Guests:

Mucahid Durmaz – Analyst at global risk intelligence consultancy Verisk Maplecroft

Marie-Roger Biloa, President and CEO of Africa International Media Group

Borso Tall: Freelance journalist who has reported extensively on political and social tensions in Senegal.