Senegal: Ousmane Sonko's lawyers request review of defamation trial

Senegal Prime Minister's Legal Proceedings

In Senegal, the legal representatives of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko have officially requested a review of the trial in which he was convicted of defamation in 2023. The request is under consideration by the country's Supreme Court, which will decide on approval following a demand from the justice minister, in accordance with Senegalese law.

If the review is accepted, it could result in the annulment of Sonko's conviction. The initial defamation charges were brought against Sonko by the then Tourism Minister, Mame Mbaye Niang. As a result of the trial, Sonko was found guilty of defamation and public insult and was mandated to pay damages amounting to 200 million CFA francs to Niang.

Additionally, Sonko received a six-month suspended prison sentence on appeal, which barred him from participating in the 2024 presidential election. This conviction was later upheld by the Supreme Court.

Sonko's legal team claims to have new evidence warranting a trial review. They cite a recently discovered report suggesting Mame Mbaye Niang's involvement in irregular public spending, potentially exonerating Sonko from defamation charges. A successful review could also address any uncertainties regarding Sonko's presidential eligibility.

Based on reporting by Africanews.