05/06/2023 (Agence Europe) – “The EU is concerned about the rise in political and social violence in Senegal and deplores the deaths”, reiterated the spokesperson for the European External Action Service, Nabila Massrali, on Monday 5 June. The clashes that broke out on 1 June after Ousmane Sonko, the main opponent of President Macky Sall, was sentenced to two years in prison, and the violent police crackdown left at least 16 people dead. Ms Massrali noted the terms of the press release published on the evening of 2 June: “In this context, it is vital that the foundations of Senegal’s long tradition of democracy, the rule of law and respect for rights and freedoms are preserved by all. The EU has confidence in the strength of Senegalese democracy and in the political forces behind it to prepare for the elections in an inclusive and peaceful manner”. (AN)