Morocco's King Mohammed VI has granted a royal pardon to 18 Senegalese football fans who were jailed for hooliganism following a chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final. The fans had been sentenced in February to prison terms of up to a year on charges including damaging sporting facilities and committing violence during a sporting event.
Royal Pardon on Eid al-Adha
The Royal Cabinet stated that the pardon was issued on the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha for 'humanitarian reasons' and to acknowledge the 'long-standing fraternal ties' between Morocco and Senegal. The decision aims to ease tensions that arose after the controversial final.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy stemmed from the January final where Senegalese fans attempted to storm the field and players protested a late penalty. Senegal initially won 1-0 but later was stripped of the title, which was awarded to Morocco. The contentious final and its aftermath prompted senior officials from both nations to call for calm amid a surge in 'hate speech targeting sub-Saharan residents,' leading to pledges of friendly ties and new trade agreements.
This pardon is seen as a step towards reconciliation, highlighting the strong diplomatic and cultural bonds between the two African nations.
