Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, has strongly criticised a Moroccan court’s decision to jail 18 Senegalese football supporters following unrest at last month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat.
The supporters were arrested after the January 18 final, where Senegal secured a 1–0 victory over host nation Morocco. Authorities alleged that some fans attempted to invade the pitch and threw projectiles during post-match celebrations, leading to clashes with security forces and damage at the stadium.
On Thursday, February 19, a Moroccan court handed the 18 supporters prison sentences ranging from three months to one year. The court also imposed fines of up to $545 on those convicted.
Speaking before parliament on Tuesday, February 24, Sonko expressed disappointment with how the matter was handled, suggesting the issue had taken on a dimension beyond sport.
“It seems this matter goes beyond the realm of sport, and that is regrettable,” he said.
“For two countries that call each other friends, like Morocco and Senegal, things should not have gone this far,” the prime minister added. He further argued that Morocco’s approach “does not honour” the longstanding diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.
Sonko said the Senegalese government had taken all necessary diplomatic steps to secure the release of its citizens. He also indicated that Senegal may consider invoking a bilateral agreement that allows for the transfer of convicted persons between the two countries, should that option be needed to resolve the situation.
The case has sparked debate over fan conduct, security measures, and the broader diplomatic implications between two countries that have historically maintained close relations.