AFCON final chaos: Senegal President appeals to Morocco’s King over detained fans 

The President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has made a direct appeal to King Mohammed VI, requesting a royal pardon for Senegalese supporters detained in Morocco following disturbances linked to the Africa Cup of Nations final.

President Faye revealed during a press conference that he had formally written to the Moroccan monarch. In his message, he both congratulated Morocco on hosting a successful tournament and appealed for clemency on behalf of the detained fans.

“We tried all means, and we contacted the judicial and diplomatic authorities, and even the Tijaniyya Zawiya, but these efforts have not been successful so far,” he said.

The Senegalese leader explained that authorities in Dakar have pursued multiple diplomatic and legal avenues in an effort to resolve the matter, maintaining close coordination with their Moroccan counterparts throughout the process.

“If all of that doesn’t change anything, what’s left to do? And if there’s anything else that can be done, let them tell us,” Faye added, underlining the urgency of the situation.

The issue stems from tensions surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations final, where isolated clashes between supporters led to the arrest of several Senegalese fans on charges including public disorder and property damage.

Since the incident, Senegalese authorities have continued to push for a resolution through diplomatic channels, while officials in Rabat have maintained that the legal process is ongoing in accordance with Moroccan law.