Senegal President Seeks Pardon for Fans Jailed Post — AFCON Final. Rabat, Morocco – Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has publicly appealed to King Mohammed VI of Morocco for a royal pardon for 18 Senegalese fans sentenced following disturbances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. Faye, during a press conference, expressed his request alongside a congratulatory message for Morocco’s hosting of the event.
The incident, which unfolded during the AFCON final, saw Senegalese fans attempting to invade the pitch following a controversial decision that favored Morocco.
The match was subsequently suspended, and the fans were arrested. Moroccan courts then handed down sentences ranging from three months to one year, along with fines. Faye explained that despite efforts through legal and diplomatic channels, including religious ones like the Tijaniyya order, the situation remained unresolved. “.
We tried every possible way, through courts, diplomacy, even religious channels like the Tijaniyya order, but nothing worked, “he.
The Rabat Court of Appeal upheld the convictions, rejecting defense requests to review video evidence.
The court maintained that the facts were clear and widely documented, with the violence, including rioting, pitch invasion, and attacks on security forces, visible to all.
The situation has heightened diplomatic tensions between Senegal and Morocco, nations with deep historical and cultural ties.
As the appeal for clemency continues, the outcome could significantly impact the relationship between the two nations and the broader region.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: moroccoworldnews
Source: Abderrahim Kabbour
