Source: The Hill
“Authorities forcibly removed Senegalese opposition leader Ousmane Sonko from his vehicle Thursday and escorted him to a court appearance, blocking his supporters from following and sparking unrest in several parts of the capital. Police fired tear gas in several parts of Dakar to disperse protesters on the third day of demonstrations in support of Sonko, who finished third in the last presidential election and is seen as a leading contender in next year’s vote. … he was to appear in connection with a civil lawsuit against him by Senegal’s tourism minister for alleged defamation. In a separate matter, Sonko is also facing rape charges after a female massage salon employee came forward and accused him of assault. … Sonko maintains his legal troubles are part of an effort by President Macky Sall’s government to derail his candidacy in the 2024 election.” (03/16/23)