Accra, May 24, GNA – King Mohammed VI of Morocco has granted a royal pardon to a number of Senegalese football supporters convicted for offences committed during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to a statement from the Royal Office.
The decision, announced on Eid Al-Adha, was taken on humanitarian grounds and in recognition of the longstanding brotherly relations between Morocco and Senegal.
The pardoned individuals had been serving sentences for misdemeanours and crimes linked to incidents during the AFCON tournament hosted by Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
The Royal Office stated that the gesture reflects the depth of friendship, cooperation and solidarity that have historically united the two nations. It further emphasized that the pardon embodies Morocco’s enduring values of compassion, mercy, generosity and tolerance.
As part of the Eid celebrations, King Mohammed VI also extended warm wishes to Senegal’s President, Mr Bassirou Diomaye Faye, as well as to the government and people of Senegal.
The statement concluded with prayers for the wellbeing of the King, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, Prince Moulay Rachid and members of the Royal Family.
Reacting to the development, President Faye welcomed the decision and expressed gratitude to the Moroccan monarch, describing the pardon as an act of “clemency and humanity.”
He noted that the beneficiaries would soon be reunited with their families, adding that the gesture further strengthens the longstanding ties of brotherhood between Morocco and Senegal.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade