By Angu Lesley
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has strongly criticized the recent jail sentences handed to 18 Senegalese football supporters by a Moroccan court, describing the convictions as “exaggerated” and urging Moroccan authorities to pardon them.
Speaking during a parliamentary session, Sonko said Morocco’s handling of the case does not reflect the longstanding friendship between the two nations. He emphasized that Senegal had done everything possible to secure the release of its supporters before the verdict was issued.
“This matter seems to go beyond the realm of sport, and that is regrettable,” Sonko stated. “For two countries that call each other friends, like Morocco and Senegal, things should not have gone this far.”
The Prime Minister added that the Senegalese government is ready to invoke a bilateral agreement that allows for the mutual transfer of detainees, provided Moroccan authorities permit it. He also called on King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan government to show clemency. Failing this, Senegal has indicated it may reconsider existing agreements to request that the supporters serve their sentences in Senegal.
The convictions stem from a pitch invasion during the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal in January. Senegalese fans clashed with Moroccan security personnel after a controversial penalty, leading to accusations of violence and property damage.
A Moroccan court subsequently sentenced the supporters to prison terms ranging from three months to one year, along with fines totaling up to $550,000. A French national was also among those convicted.
It remains to be seen whether Moroccan authorities will respond favorably to Senegal’s plea or maintain the sentences.
English 
French