Senegalese Government Announces Probe Into Unrest

Senegal has announced an independent and impartial commission to investigate deadly violence in March, upsetting the country’s reputation as a haven of stability in West Africa.

At least five people were killed in the worst unrest in years, according to an unofficial toll, while the opposition says at least 13 died and blames the authorities.

Riots and looting broke out when opposition figure Ousmane Sonko, a leading rival to President Macky Sall, was arrested and accused of rape.

Sonko, who has a strong following among young Senegalese, denies the allegations, describing them as plot to knock his 2024 presidential bid off course.

Armed Forces Minister Sidiki Kaba, announcing the inquiry, said investigators would “re-establish the facts, refuting claims that the government of Senegal was entirely responsible.

He did not rule out possible violations by police or gendarmes, but insisted there would be “no impunity” for any who were found guilty.

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch (HRW) have denounced what they call excessive force and use of live rounds, and the use of unidentified agents to support the security forces.

Kaba said the commission would be open to the opposition and civil society, but gave no further details or the timetable for its work.