Click to expand Image Supporters of Senegal opposition leader Ousmane Sonko clash with security forces on June 2, 2023, after Sonko was sentenced to prison in Dakar, Senegal. 2023 REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra (Nairobi) -Senegaleseauthorities should immediately ensure an independent and credible investigation into the violence during protests in the capital, Dakar, and across the country since May 31, 2023, Human Rights Watch said today. At least 16 deaths have been reported, including two members of the security forces, and injuries of scores of others. The government should unconditionally release all those held for peacefully expressing their political views or for exercising their right to freedom of assembly and end arbitrary bans on access to the internet and social media. Demonstrations broke out in Dakar on May 31 after a criminal court sentenced prominent opposition leader Ousmane Sonko - head of the political party Patriotes africains du Senegal pour le travail, l'ethique et la