Senegalese youth clashed with security forces Thursday outside the politically charged trial of an opposition leader who was earlier forcibly removed from his vehicle by gendarmes on his way to court.
Ousmane Sonko is being tried for allegedly defaming a minister, a case that could determine whether he will be eligible to run in presidential elections next February.
An AFP journalist saw a kiosk on fire, rubble on the road and a heavy gendarme presence on the scene shortly afterwards.On Tuesday, Sonko held an authorised rally where he urged thousands of supporters to come en masse to back him on the day of the trial. A firebrand speaker, Sonko has enjoyed a rapid political ascent thanks in part to his popularity with young peopleHe has already declared himself a candidate for the 2024 race, but his path to the presidency faces judicial hurdles.
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