The court found Sonko guilty of “corrupting youth,” according to state media, but cleared him of other charges, including rape. Sonko, 48, didn’t attend Thursday’s hearing and remained at his home, but following the verdict he can be arrested any time. Sonko’s political party PASTEF (Patriots of Senegal for Ethics, Work and Fraternity), said the verdict was politically motivated as he is challenging President Macky Sall’s government. Police intervene as supporters of Senegalese opposition leader Ousmane Sonko protest in Dakar on June 1, 2023. Annika Hammerschlag/Anadolu Agency/Getty ImagesA demonstrator hurls a stone at police in Dakar on June 1, 2023 during a protest.

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Persons: Ousmane Sonko, Sonko, didn’t, Abdou Karim Fofana, Antoine Felix Abdoulaye Diome, ” Nteblocks, Macky Sall’s, Annika Hammerschlag, John Wessels, “, Sall, who’s Organizations: CNN, Government, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, PASTEF, Patriots, Police, Anadolu Agency, Getty Locations: Senegal’s, Dakar, Senegal