By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York
Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko arrived in Morocco on Monday as diplomatic efforts intensify following the detention of 18 Senegalese football supporters in the aftermath of the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations.
Moroccan authorities confirmed that the fans are being held on hooliganism-related charges linked to disturbances that occurred after Senegal’s 1–0 victory over Morocco on January 18. The incident has since drawn strong attention in Senegal and prompted high-level political engagement between the two countries.
The AFCON final itself was overshadowed by chaotic scenes late in the match. Senegalese players temporarily walked off the pitch in protest after a controversial last-minute penalty was awarded to Morocco. Play was suspended for several minutes before Senegal returned to the field and eventually secured victory in extra time, sealing the title.
The fallout from the match sparked legal threats, public outrage, and diplomatic scrutiny, with Senegalese officials seeking assurances over the treatment of detained supporters.
Sonko’s visit forms part of bilateral talks aimed at de-escalating tensions. Discussions have involved Morocco’s leadership, with King Mohammed V expressing regret over the incident and issuing a formal apology in a press statement released after the tournament.
Amid rising emotions back home, Prime Minister Sonko has urged calm and restraint, stressing that diplomatic channels remain the preferred route to resolving the matter.
Senegalese officials say negotiations are ongoing as both governments work to protect diplomatic relations while ensuring due process for the detained supporters.
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