King Mohammed VI of Morocco has extended a royal pardon to 18 Senegalese football fans who were imprisoned for hooliganism during the tumultuous Africa Cup of Nations final.
The fans received prison sentences in February of up to a year for offenses including damage to sports facilities and acts of violence during the event, with some having completed their sentences prior to the pardon.
In a statement issued on the occasion of the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha, the Royal Cabinet highlighted “humanitarian reasons” and “the long-standing fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal” as the basis for the pardon.
“In recognition of the enduring brotherhood between Morocco and Senegal, and in celebration of Eid al-Adha, King Mohammed VI has graciously granted a royal pardon to the Senegalese supporters convicted of offenses during the Africa Cup of Nations,” the Royal Cabinet announced on Saturday.
The dispute arose during the final match in January, during which Senegalese fans attempted to rush the field in protest of a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco.
King Mohammed VI of Morocco referenced ‘humanitarian reasons’ for the pardon, granted on the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha (AP Photo/Michel Euler)
Senegal ultimately won the match 1-0, securing the championship title.
However, in a historic decision, the Confederation of African Football revoked Senegal’s title, declaring Morocco as champions instead. Senegal later filed an appeal against this ruling.
This contentious final and its aftermath incited calls for calm from high-ranking officials in both nations due to a rise in “hate speech targeting sub-Saharan residents,” as reported by Moroccan rights groups. Subsequently, leaders from Morocco and Senegal reaffirmed their commitment to friendly relations and signed agreements aimed at enhancing trade and investment.