Kalidou Koulibaly calls for freedom of Senegal fans after Rabat incidents

Kalidou Koulibaly has called for the release of 18 Senegalese supporters imprisoned in Morocco following incidents during a continental final in Rabat.

In a voice message shared on social media, the Senegal captain expressed solidarity with the detained fans, who were recently sentenced to prison terms ranging from three months to one year.

His intervention comes just over a month after the events in Morocco and days after the court rulings were confirmed.

Addressing the supporters directly, Koulibaly said: ” My dear supporters, my Gaindes brothers! From the first day of this affair, we, the players of the National Team and the coach, have been deeply affected humanly and fraternally .”

The defender, who plays for Al Hilal, also explained why members of the national team had not spoken publicly sooner.

” If we have remained publicly silent, it was neither out of distance nor indifference. (…) We felt that, faced with ongoing legal proceedings, it was essential to allow the State of Senegal and the competent authorities to carry out the necessary steps. “

He added that the players had sought to avoid escalating tensions. ” Sometimes, restraint is a form of strength ,” Koulibaly stated, insisting that the squad had remained concerned behind the scenes.

Reflecting on the emotional weight of the situation, particularly during Ramadan and Lent, he said: ” Not for a moment did we forget you. (…) In our hearts, you remain victors. This continental trophy also bears your mark. “

Koulibaly concluded his message with a direct appeal: ” You are not walking alone. (…) Our only fight is to see you free and reunited with your families. (…) Free our supporters! “

The issue has sparked wider reaction in Senegal. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko told the National Assembly that ” everything that needed to be done has been done ,” referring to discussions between Dakar and Rabat. A march in support of the detained fans is planned for Saturday in Dakar and Rufisque.

Koulibaly’s statement adds a prominent voice from the sporting community to a case that has resonated far beyond football.