Influencers Mandoumbe Diop (known online as Lamignou Darou), Magueye Diaw (Oustaz Thiep), and Moustapha Ndiaye (Ndiaye Touba) received prison sentences ranging from two to three months for allegedly insulting the head of state and violating public morals. Each was also fined 500,000 West African CFA francs.
The case stems from a video posted after a religious gathering where the trio made remarks interpreted as wishing harm upon a political figure—specifically mentioning paralysis, stroke, or death. While the president’s name was never explicitly mentioned, the court ruled the comments were directed at President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
Political tensions fuel legal battle
The verdict arrives amid escalating political divisions between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko, once close allies. The president recently formalized his split from Sonko by launching his own political party. Defense attorneys argue the video was a satirical performance with no direct reference to the president, calling the ruling a dangerous precedent for free speech in Senegal. They have announced plans to appeal the decision.