Senegal PM Sonko Visits Morocco Amid Tensions Over Detained AFCON Fans

Daniel Otera02 mins

 

Senegal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko is set to begin an official visit to Morocco on Monday, as diplomatic ties between the two nations face strain following the detention of Senegalese supporters over hooliganism charges linked to the Africa Cup of Nations final.

The visit, which takes place within the framework of a joint commission between the two states, is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, according to a source at the Senegalese foreign ministry. A Moroccan-Senegalese economic forum has also been planned to coincide with the trip, the Moroccan news agency MAP reported.

Eighteen Senegalese supporters remain in pre-trial detention in Morocco, where they face charges of hooliganism following incidents at the Africa Cup of Nations final held on January 18. Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time in the match, which was marred by crowd disturbances.

Read Also: Senegal Coach Thiaw Apologises Over Pitch Walkout During AFCON Final

The trial of the detained fans opened on Thursday at a Rabat court but has been postponed to January 29, leaving the supporters in custody pending further proceedings. The detentions have sparked tensions between the two African nations, despite their historically cooperative relationship.

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has expressed regret over the incidents, while Prime Minister Sonko has called for tensions to be defused. However, rival fans from both countries have continued to exchange hostile remarks on social media platforms, keeping emotions elevated in the aftermath of the final.

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