Dakar, Senegal – (African Boulevard News) – In a new twist to the ongoing political unrest in Senegal, an influential religious leader has urged opposition politician Ousmane Sonko to end his hunger strike. Sheikh Ayyoub Bousnina, the spiritual leader of the influential Tijaniyya Muslim brotherhood, joined a growing chorus of voices calling for an end to Sonko’s hunger strike, which he started after his detention at the end of July.
Sheikh Bousnina is known for his moderate views and wide following in Senegal. In a public statement, he emphasized the importance of dialogue and encouraged Sonko to consider alternative ways of expressing his grievances. The religious leader expressed concern for Sonko’s health, highlighting the risks associated with prolonged hunger strikes.
Sonko, a prominent opposition leader, was arrested on July 29, 2023, following violent clashes between his supporters and security forces. He has been charged with disturbing public order, inciting violence, and rape allegations. Sonko denies the charges and maintains that they are politically motivated.
Since his detention, Sonko has refused to eat, demanding his release and the withdrawal of the charges against him. His hunger strike has garnered attention both nationally and internationally, with concerns growing over his deteriorating health. Several human rights organizations and political figures have called for his release and expressed concern about his well-being.
The religious leader’s statement adds weight to the growing pressure on Sonko to reconsider his hunger strike. Sheikh Bousnina emphasized the importance of peaceful means to resolve conflicts and called on all parties involved to engage in dialogue to find a solution.
Experts suggest that Sheikh Bousnina’s intervention could potentially pave the way for negotiations between Sonko and the government. The influential religious leader has a history of mediating in political disputes, and his involvement could help de-escalate tensions and restore calm in Senegal.
The call to end the hunger strike comes at a crucial time for Senegal, as the country grapples with social and political upheaval. Protests against President Macky Sall’s government have rocked the nation, leading to a crackdown by security forces and the arrest of several opposition leaders.
As the situation in Senegal remains tense, it is uncertain whether Sonko will heed the religious leader’s call. The coming days will be pivotal in determining the course of events and whether there is a possibility for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
In the meantime, the international community continues to closely monitor the situation in Senegal, urging all parties to exercise restraint and seek peaceful solutions. The pressure on President Macky Sall’s government to address the grievances of the opposition and ensure respect for human rights remains high, with the hope that dialogue and compromise can eventually prevail.
