Senegal Revokes Amnesty for Serious Crimes Committed During 2021-24 Protests

Dakar, April 3 – Senegal’s government has announced it will lift amnesty protections for individuals accused of violent offenses during the deadly nationwide protests that occurred between 2021 and 2024. The decision marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to addressing political unrest that left dozens dead and brought the West African nation to a standstill.

The original amnesty, implemented to calm tensions following mass demonstrations, covered most participants in the protests. However, Justice Minister Aïssata Tall Sall stated that those responsible for killings, arson attacks, or other grave crimes would now face prosecution. “There must be justice for the families who lost loved ones,” she declared at a press conference in Dakar.

The protests, some of the most violent in Senegal’s recent history, erupted over then-President Macky Sall’s controversial bid for a third term and the imprisonment of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. Security forces were accused of using excessive force, while demonstrators burned government buildings and clashed with police.

Human rights groups have expressed cautious support for the move. Amnesty International’s Senegal researcher Ousmane Diallo noted, “While accountability is important, authorities must ensure this isn’t used as political retribution against opposition voices.” Meanwhile, some opposition leaders have condemned the decision, calling it selective justice that ignores police violence.

The policy change comes as new President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, elected in March 2024, attempts to balance national reconciliation with demands for justice. Analysts suggest the move could test the fragile political truce that has held since Faye’s election. With court cases expected to begin in coming months, Senegal faces renewed scrutiny over its handling of one of its most turbulent political chapters.