During the past week, Senegal has been rocked by its worst violence in years, which was sparked by the arrest of the charismatic opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who has been charged with rape. Sonko, who is considered a serious contender to replace President Macky Sall in 2024, denies the allegations. He says the charges are politically motivated. 

Sonko's arrest sparked clashes last Wednesay not just in the capital Dakar but in other cities across the country. In the days that followed, tensions mounted and at least 5 protesters lost their lives. Then on Monday Sonko was released. President Macky Sall has now broken his silence and is striking a more conciliatory note.

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