Senegal Morocco fan detentions as Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko visits Rabat following AFCON final incidents and ongoing court cases
Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko will begin an official visit to Morocco on Monday amid Senegal Morocco fan detentions linked to incidents at the Africa Cup of Nations final, officials said.
Also read: Breaking: Morocco defeats Nigeria on penalties in AFCON semifinal
The visit comes as 18 Senegalese supporters remain in pre trial detention in Morocco where they face charges related to hooliganism following the final match played on January 18.
Senegal defeated Morocco 1 0 after time to secure the title but celebrations were overshadowed by clashes involving rival supporters in and around the stadium.
Court proceedings against the detained fans opened on Thursday in Rabat but were adjourned with the case now scheduled to resume on January 29.
Senegal Morocco fan detentions have drawn attention in both countries despite their long standing diplomatic and economic ties spanning tourism energy infrastructure and transport as well as shared religious links.
A source at the Senegalese foreign ministry said Sonko’s visit is taking place within the framework of a joint commission between the two states which will hold meetings on Monday and Tuesday.
As part of the visit a Moroccan Senegalese economic forum is also scheduled according to Morocco’s state news agency MAP highlighting efforts to keep bilateral cooperation on track.
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has expressed regret over the incidents while Sonko has publicly called for calm and restraint urging both sides to avoid escalation.
Despite official appeals rival supporters from both countries have continued to exchange sharp comments on social media keeping emotions high.
Also read: Calvin Bassey praised as AFCON hero despite Morocco loss
Observers say Sonko’s trip is a delicate but significant diplomatic move aimed at easing tensions addressing the Senegal Morocco fan detentions and reaffirming cooperation between two closely linked African nations.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
