Tensions in Senegal: footballers denounce and call for a return to peace

Several Senegalese footballers have been reacting since Thursday to the deadly clashes that have left at least nine dead in the country. They call for a return to peace, wisdom, and justice.

Sadio Mané (left) and Idrissa Gana Gueye, two executives of Senegal's national team, reacted to the tragic events that are shaking their country. © Pierre René-Worms

Text by: Ndiasse Sambe Follow

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This Thursday, June 1, violent clashes broke out in several cities in Senegal after the announcement of the sentencing of the opponent Ousmane Sonko to two years in prison for "corruption of youth". Clashes between protesters and security forces left nine people dead, according to Interior Minister Antoine Félix Diome.

These incidents have prompted many Senegalese international players to speak out calling for a return to calm. The star of the Lions, Sadio Mané, believes that "too much blood has already been shed for 2 years" and considers that "it is essential that all stakeholders of the nation immediately unite their efforts to find peace. " "Be careful! We must preserve our youth, it is our first wealth, "warns the Bayern player.

Krépin Diatta: "Where is the justice in all this?

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Striker Famara Diédhiou recalls that "Senegal has always been a reference country in Africa, but especially in the world" and also believes that "too much blood has been shed". "Chaos, terror, insecurity, NO NO NO!!" shouts the Senegalese international.

For his part, Idrissa Guèye appeals to God to help leaders act "with justice and wisdom" and make "truth and justice prevail over oppression".

Far be it from me to talk about politics, to incite or influence any word or deed but in view of the dramatic news. I feel compelled to speak.

First of all, I offer my condolences to the families of the deceased of Ziguinchor. I wish a speedy recovery

— Abdou-lakhad Diallo (@Abdou_diallo_) May 16, 2023

Among the Senegalese players who reacted, only Krépin Diatta took a clear position. "For two years, a case of rape has spread terror and chaos, resulting in loss of life, to finally lead to a verdict and conviction for facts other than those of which he [Ousmane Sonko: Editor's note] has been accused for two years. Where is the justice in all this? " wonders the player of AS Monaco.

It should be noted that Senegal coach Aliou Cissé, who was due to publish the list of players for the Senegal-Benin match on June 17, cancelled his press conference due to tensions in Dakar. The list will be published on the official website of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF).

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  • Senegal
  • Society
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  • Football
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