The Alliance for the Republic (APR) has voiced its « profound outrage » following the detention of its member Pape Malick Ndour, who was taken into custody under a warrant linked to the PRODAC case.
In an official statement, the party led by former President Macky Sall accused Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko of being the first to announce the « hostage-taking » and labeling him as the « mastermind » behind the arrest.
The APR argues that the charges rely on a contested 2018 report from the Inspectorate General of Finance (IGF), despite Pape Malick Ndour only assuming his role at PRODAC in June 2019. The party dismisses the accusations as « legally unfounded, » emphasizing that their colleague had performed admirably as coordinator of the agency. They further criticize the non-contradictory nature of the forensic accounting report, which they claim is built on « flimsy assertions that contradict reality. »
The APR describes the alleged misconduct as « surprisingly trivial » and condemns what it sees as a « systematic reliance on detention measures » in cases where fair trial guarantees appear severely compromised. The party expresses deep concern over the decision’s implications for individual freedoms, stating that it rests on « weak, insufficiently contradictory, or demonstrably false evidence. »
Beyond Pape Malick Ndour’s case, the APR warns that this situation raises broader questions about the protection of defense rights, presumption of innocence, and public liberties. The party rejects any move toward « criminalizing the opposition » or « intimidating political leaders, » stressing its refusal to accept a democracy that stifles dissent.
The APR reaffirms its unwavering support for Pape Malick Ndour, his family, and his legal team, urging all party members to remain « mobilized, vigilant, and united » against any attempt to undermine democratic principles and fundamental freedoms. The party holds the Government fully responsible for any harm to Ndour’s physical or moral integrity and demands his « immediate and unconditional release. »
Concluding its statement, the APR vowed to stand alongside all those facing injustice, declaring its faith that « justice will always prevail over arbitrariness. »