Senegal: the opponent Ousmane Sonko heard by the justice, the mobile Internet suspended in the country

Senegalese authorities announced on July 31, 2023 the suspension of internet access on phones via mobile data due to the dissemination of "hateful and subversive" messages on social networks, after calls for demonstrations related to the arrest of Ousmane Sonko on July 28. The opponent who has been heard by the courts since this morning.

Opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, mayor of Ziguinchor, speaks at a Senegalese opposition rally at Obelisk Square in Dakar, June 8, 2022. AFP - SEYLLOU

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With our correspondent in Dakar, Birahim Touré

Ousmane Sonko was presented to an investigating judge on July 31, 2023. The opponent, arrested since July 28, is being prosecuted on seven counts including calling for insurrection. The hearing began in Dakar where the tension is perceptible.

His hearing started at 11:25 a.m. local time. Ousmane Sonko, in the office of the senior judge Maham Diallo, is assisted by his lawyers to answer for offenses and crimes that the public prosecutor served on him after hearing him Saturday when he was presented to him.

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A hearing that should lead to a warrant of committal, according to one of his lawyers who, in front of the press this Sunday, already announced that this is the only way out available to the judge according to the code of criminal procedure.

A perspective that pushed the administrative authorities to take the lead to avoid any demonstration of supporters and supporters of the leader of the party African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (Pastef). On Monday morning, the Ministry of Communication announced the temporary suspension of the Internet of mobile data. This disrupts the connection throughout the country.

Several gas stations closed or idling

The police are also deployed and several gas stations closed or idling.

The toll highway service, which has seen sporadic protests, has also asked users not to use it except in emergencies.

Dakar, usually very noisy, has been calm since that morning. A little too quiet even, according to some citizens met.

" READ ALSO Senegal: the opponent Ousmane Sonko again charged

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