According to sources close to Senegal’s jailed opposition leader, the state has withdrawn its appeal against the decision to reinstate Ousmane Sonko on the electoral lists. This move follows the overturning of Sonko’s in absentia sentence in the Adji Sarr case.

The state’s decision to withdraw its appeal was confirmed in a document from Senegal’s Director of Prosecution, stating, “The State of Senegal hereby waives its appeal against Ordinance No. 01 of December 14, 2023,” signed by Senegal’s State Judicial Officer, Yoro Moussa Diallo. This development is seen as a significant victory for Sonko and his supporters, who have been advocating for the restoration of his political rights.

With this judgment, the leader of the banned Pastef party is now de facto eligible again. Sonko was first declared eligible by Judge Sabassy Faye of Ziguinchor’s appeal court and then approved by the Dakar High Court.

Furthermore, Sonko’s criminal record, including the penalty for defamation in the case of Mame Mbaye Niang, has been fully erased from courtrooms due to the recent amnesty law passed by the Senegalese national assembly.

This decision comes amidst weeks of political unrest and protests following Sonko’s arrest on rape charges, which he denies. The reinstatement of Sonko on the electoral lists could potentially ease tensions and pave the way for a more peaceful resolution to the current political crisis in Senegal.

Sonko’s supporters hope that this development will lead to his release from jail and allow him to resume his campaign in support of Bassirou Faye for the upcoming presidential elections.