French-Spanish lawyer, Juan Branco, who was arrested in connection with recent unrest in Senegal, has been released on Monday under judicial supervision before being deported from the country, according to authorities and his legal team.
Branco, who entered Senegal illegally to participate in the defense of opposition politician Ousmane Sonko, despite a warrant for his arrest, was apprehended on Friday evening in Mauritania after an extensive search. He was subsequently handed over to Senegalese authorities and detained on Sunday on various charges related to the recent unrest.
One of Branco’s lawyers, Robin Binsard, stated, “He was taken from prison this morning (Monday) and presented to the judge, who informed him that he had been placed under judicial supervision.” Binsard added that Branco was then handed over to the police for deportation as per an order issued by the Minister of the Interior. Justice Minister Ismaïla Madior Fall confirmed the deportation, stating, “In the next few hours, he should leave Senegal.”
Upon his release, Branco’s lawyer mentioned that he was exhausted but relieved. The Justice Minister also revealed that Branco had refused to eat or drink during his time in detention.
According to his legal team, Branco has been charged with several offenses, including attack, conspiracy, spreading false news, acts and maneuvers that could compromise public security or cause serious political unrest, illegal residence, and contempt of court.
The Senegalese authorities have taken Branco’s actions very seriously. The lawyer has gained prominence in the country for his defense of Ousmane Sonko, who has been engaged in a standoff with the government and the courts since 2021. The ongoing confrontation between Sonko, a presidential candidate for 2024, and the authorities has resulted in episodes of deadly violence.
Branco rose to attention when he filed a complaint in France in June against Senegalese President Macky Sall for “crimes against humanity” during a period of intense unrest in the country. He also asked the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague to investigate Sall. Known for his strong criticisms of the Senegalese government, Branco’s presence at a press conference held by Sonko’s lawyers in July was met with outrage by the authorities, as it defied an arrest warrant against him.
The circumstances surrounding Branco’s arrest in Mauritania remain unclear. Senegalese media reported that he was found onboard a pirogue dressed as a fisherman. The Senegalese Minister of Justice stated that some of the charges against Branco are criminal in nature, suggesting he could have faced prolonged custody.
Despite his release, the legal proceedings against Branco will continue. The minister assured the public that all necessary investigative steps will be taken, and there is a possibility that Branco’s judicial supervision may be revoked. Furthermore, he emphasized that Branco could still face trial and potential sentencing. Senegal and France have established judicial cooperation, which means that if convicted, Branco could serve his sentence in France.
The minister underlined the importance of Senegal asserting its sovereignty and setting an example through this case. Branco was entitled to consular assistance from both France and Spain.
Branco’s arrest and subsequent release have drawn significant attention, shedding light on the complex political landscape and ongoing tensions in Senegal.
Image Credit: BERTRAND GUAY / AFP
