Senegal: National Assembly revises Amnesty Law

A reform project under strain

Senegal’s National Assembly is set to consider a revision of the amnesty law adopted in March 2024. The amendment aims to exclude certain serious crimes from its scope, in a context still marked by political violence.

A long history of political violence

Between 2021 and 2024, Senegal experienced a series of violently repressed demonstrations, resulting in the deaths of at least 65 people and numerous injuries. The forces of law and order, supported by armed groups in civilian clothes, were accused of brutal repression. To calm the situation, an amnesty law was passed in 2024, cancelling all prosecutions for acts committed during this period.

A controversial law between peace and impunity

While this amnesty has been seen by some as a tool for pacification, it has also been strongly criticized. Many human rights activists denounced the risk of impunity for the perpetrators of serious violence. Initially promised to be completely abolished by former President Macky Sall, the law is now the subject of a partial revision.

Conclusion: A difficult balance to strike

Senegalese MPs will have to decide between the need to turn the page on political violence and the demand for justice for the victims. This revision will be decisive for the country’s political and social future, by asking the crucial question: how far can amnesty go without sacrificing truth and justice?