Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko announced Friday that his administration will seek to repeal the controversial amnesty law enacted under former President Macky Sall.

This law passed in March 2024, granted immunity to individuals involved in political violence between February 2021 and February 2024. The decision aims to address longstanding grievances over justice and accountability in the West African nation.

The amnesty law came as Sall sought to quell nationwide protests triggered by his last-minute decision to postpone presidential elections. While it allowed key figures like Sonko, then a popular opposition leader, and Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who won the presidency, to run despite prior legal hurdles, critics argued it shielded perpetrators of serious crimes.

Sonko, in a policy speech to lawmakers, emphasized the importance of revisiting this law.

“In addition to putting compensation for victims into the budget, a draft law will be submitted to your august Assembly to repeal the March 6, 2024, amnesty so that light may be shed and responsibilities determined on whatever side they may lie.”
Ousmane Sonko

Sonko’s administration has pledged to investigate the deaths and abuses resulting from political violence that marred Senegal’s recent history. Between March 2021 and August 2023, protests over Sall’s perceived attempts to extend his tenure left at least 56 people dead, with widespread allegations of excessive force by security personnel.

The Prime Minister assured that the government’s efforts were not about vengeance. “It’s not a witch hunt and even less vengeance … It’s justice, the foundation without which social peace cannot be built,” he said. Justice Minister Ousmane Diagne echoed this sentiment, noting that addressing these cases was essential to restoring public confidence in the rule of law.

Civil society organizations and international watchdogs like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have called for thorough investigations into the violence. Many of these groups argue that the amnesty law undermined accountability and emboldened perpetrators to act with impunity.

Broader Implications for Senegalese Democracy

The move to repeal the amnesty law reflects Senegal’s struggle to maintain its democratic values amid mounting political and economic pressures. Civil society coalitions, such as Forces Vives (F24), have opposed the amnesty, claiming it eroded the country’s commitment to justice and accountability.

Sonko’s government faces the daunting task of balancing this demand for justice with the need for socio-economic reforms. Senegal is grappling with rising unemployment and inflation, issues that have intensified public frustration in recent years. The administration’s plans to develop the country’s natural gas reserves are seen as a potential avenue for economic recovery.

However, political stability remains a prerequisite for any substantial progress. Analysts caution that the government must handle this transition delicately to avoid reigniting tensions. “The repeal of the amnesty law is a necessary step, but it must be accompanied by broader reforms to address systemic issues,” said a Dakar-based political analyst.

Sonko’s push for justice could mark a turning point in Senegal’s political landscape. By holding those responsible for past violence accountable, his administration seeks to build a foundation of trust and transparency. Whether this approach succeeds will depend on its ability to navigate competing interests and address the root causes of political unrest.