Amnesty International, a human rights organization, has urged Senegalese authorities to conduct independent investigations into the violent clashes during recent protests. According to Amnesty, at least 23 individuals lost their lives, a higher number than the government’s official count of 16.
Amnesty International stated that among the 23 fatalities were three children. The organization noted that the deaths, including some caused by gunfire, occurred in Dakar, the capital, and Ziguinchor, a southern town, during the protests on June 1 and 2.
The rights group called upon the authorities to carry out a credible, impartial, and independent investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding these deaths. They emphasized the importance of prosecuting those responsible for unlawful killings in accordance with fair trial standards.
The Senegalese government previously announced an inquiry into the deaths resulting from the protests but has not yet responded to Amnesty’s statement.
Recent protests in Senegal have been triggered by the trial of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. Last week, violent demonstrations erupted following Sonko’s sentencing in absentia to a two-year prison term for immoral conduct, although he was cleared of rape charges. Sonko’s supporters believe that the charges against him are politically motivated.
