Senegalese opposition politician Ousmane Sonko was forcibly removed from his vehicle by security forces Thursday after his supporters were dispersed by teargas, in a new bout of tension ahead of presidential elections due next year.
The incidents took place after the postponement of a politically-charged trial that may determine Sonko's eligibility for upcoming presidential elections, whose date was also announced on Thursday, February 16, 2023.
In video footage broadcast live on social networks, the politician who came third in the 2019 presidential election and has declared himself a candidate for the 2024 race is seen being forcibly removed from the backseat of his vehicle by uniformed men.
They were seen breaking the window, while Sonko is heard saying “I refused to get out”. The men then opened the door and pulled the politician out by the arm. After resisting for a few moments, Sonko allowed himself to be taken away.
The incident happened amid growing tension in the West African country, which has a general reputation for stability in a region where political turbulence is widespread.
Earlier, security forces had used tear gas to disperse about a hundred of Sonko’s supporters who were attempting to enter the court in the capital Dakar.
OneForumNews1
: Senegal's Opposition Leader Detained as Political Tensions Rise){kind=link}
0 Comments