Rabat, Morocco – Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has issued a royal pardon for Senegalese football fans convicted in connection with riots during the Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat. This is according to a statement issued Saturday by the Royal Cabinet.
The statement said that the King “graciously granted his royal pardon, for humanitarian reasons,” to the Senegalese fans convicted for “offenses and crimes committed” during the continental tournament. This occurred on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. Moreover, the Royal Court explained that the decision also “reflects the historical fraternal relations” between Morocco and Senegal.
Background of the case
The case stems from riots that followed the Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat. A Moroccan court previously sentenced 19 fans to prison, including 18 Senegalese and one French national. After conviction, they faced charges related to violence and damage to sports facilities during the final match.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomêne Faye revealed in early May that he had requested King Mohammed VI to pardon the detained Senegalese fans. This move appeared to be linked to efforts to contain the diplomatic and sporting repercussions of the events surrounding the tournament final. The pardon carries both political and humanitarian dimensions. It comes within the context of close relations between Rabat and Dakar. After months of tension, this followed incidents during the match and subsequent discussions about stadium security and fan behavior during continental competitions.
