Senegal releases hundreds of political prisoners

Senegal’s Justice Minister Aissata Tall Sall has announced the release of nearly 400 protesters from prison.

They were arrested and imprisoned during the political demonstrations of March 2021 and June 2023.

Ms Sall did not indicate whether opposition leader Ousmane Sonko and presidential candidate Bachirou Diomaye Faye would be released.

"The only thing I can say is that this is not a mass release; these are cases that are studied on a case-by-case basis according to the elements in the files," she added.

The minister said the release of the political prisoners was aimed at easing tensions in the country.

Political demonstrations in Senegal have often resulted in arrests and deaths.

Most recently, three people died during protests over the cancellation of the country’s 25 February elections.

The justice minister said investigations were ongoing to determine those responsible.