Senegal fans still jailed after disputed africa cup final

Almost four months after the African Cup of Nations final—initially won by Senegal in extra time (1-0) but later overturned to Morocco by the CAF Appeals Committee (3-0 on default)—the fate of detained supporters in Rabat remains unresolved. While three individuals have been released, those involved in storming the pitch and confronting security personnel face potential further imprisonment.

In a televised address, Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, addressed the plight of the Lions of Teranga fans, many of whom received sentences ranging from six months to a year. « It would be a mistake to believe we haven’t done enough for our supporters imprisoned in Morocco. They have my full backing », the Head of State declared.

President appeals directly to the King of Morocco for clemency

Following the African Cup of Nations match on January 18 in Rabat, Senegal’s government has pursued multiple diplomatic avenues to secure the release of its nationals. « We must respect the justice systems of others, yet the severity of these sentences is disproportionate and unjust. Typically, such incidents result in fines… not prolonged incarceration », President Faye noted.

Despite efforts to de-escalate tensions after the highly publicized violence, Morocco has maintained a firm stance. The Senegalese government did not contest the rulings in its domestic courts. « I have personally appealed to His Majesty the King of Morocco to grant clemency to our supporters. We’ve engaged in mediation across all relevant parties and even involved religious channels… yet the situation persists », the president explained in his letter to King Mohammed VI.