Senegal’s foreign minister, Cheikh Niang, has said discussions are underway with Moroccan authorities to resolve the case of Senegalese supporters imprisoned following unrest at the Africa Cup of Nations final.
The development signals a potential diplomatic breakthrough after months of legal proceedings linked to incidents that occurred during the final between Morocco and Senegal.
Speaking to the Senegalese broadcaster RTS, Niang acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue and the emotional toll it has taken.
“We acknowledge the difficulty of the situation and its immense pain, and we renew our solidarity with these young people,” he said.
Diplomatic Efforts Intensify After Legal Constraints
Niang explained that diplomatic intervention had initially been constrained by ongoing judicial processes in Morocco.
“As long as the legal proceedings continued, it was impossible for diplomacy to exert its full influence,” he noted.
With the legal phase now largely concluded for several of those involved, Senegal appears to be increasing its diplomatic engagement in an effort to secure a resolution.
The minister confirmed that direct discussions have already begun between the two governments.
“We have already begun discussions with the Moroccan side to find the best possible solution to this situation.”
Relations Between Dakar and Rabat in Focus
The case has drawn attention not only for its legal implications but also for its potential impact on bilateral relations.
Niang described ties between Dakar and Rabat as strong, while suggesting that the situation may have stemmed from misunderstandings.
“This issue has an impact on the relations between Dakar and Rabat, which are exceptional. I think there is a misunderstanding, which may sometimes be justified. This chapter will be closed soon.”
His remarks indicate confidence that a mutually acceptable outcome could be reached in the near future.
Legal Pathways Also Being Pursued
Alongside diplomatic efforts, legal steps are also underway on behalf of the detained supporters.
Their lawyer, Patrick Kabou, has confirmed that a formal request for a pardon has been initiated. The process is being handled through a Moroccan lawyer who is part of the defence team.
According to the information provided, the application has been submitted to the royal office, which has the authority to grant clemency.
Background to the Case
The arrests followed disturbances that broke out during the Africa Cup of Nations final earlier this year, amid controversy surrounding refereeing decisions.
Several Senegalese fans were subsequently charged and convicted in Morocco, with some already completing their sentences while others remain in custody.
The situation has since evolved into both a legal and diplomatic matter, drawing involvement from government officials and legal representatives on both sides.
Prospects for Resolution
Niang’s comments suggest that Senegal is seeking a balanced resolution that addresses both legal considerations and humanitarian concerns.
While no formal agreement has yet been announced, the initiation of talks and the submission of pardon requests indicate that efforts are advancing on multiple fronts.
For the families of those involved, the prospect of a resolution offers a measure of hope after a prolonged period of uncertainty.
As discussions continue, attention will remain focused on whether diplomatic engagement can bring the matter to a close, as Senegal’s foreign minister has suggested.
