CASABLANCA, Morocco (AP) — Eighteen Senegalese soccer supporters imprisoned following violent incidents during a tumultuous Africa Cup of Nations championship match received official pardons Saturday from Morocco’s king, according to the Royal Cabinet.
The Senegalese supporters received prison sentences in February lasting up to one year for charges that included damaging sporting facilities and committing violence during a sporting event. Several of the fans have already served their complete sentences.
“Given the long-standing fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal, and on the occasion of (Muslim holiday) Eid al-Adha, King Mohammed VI has graciously granted, for humanitarian reasons, his royal pardon to Senegalese supporters convicted of offenses committed during Africa Cup of Nations competitions,” the Royal Cabinet said in a statement.
The championship match in January saw Senegalese supporters trying to rush onto the playing field, while Senegalese players left the game in protest after officials awarded a controversial late penalty to host nation Morocco.
While Senegal ultimately secured a 1-0 victory and claimed the trophy, the Confederation of African Football later took the unprecedented step of removing Senegal’s title and naming Morocco as champions. Senegal subsequently announced plans to challenge this ruling.
The controversial final and its consequences led high-ranking officials from both nations to urge restraint amid rising tensions that human rights organizations in Morocco characterized as “hate speech targeting sub-Saharan residents.” Leadership from both Morocco and Senegal committed to preserving diplomatic relationships and executed numerous agreements designed to enhance trade and investment between the countries.
