Senegal: Student Leaders Detained After Dakar University Protests

Senegal University Protests Continue as Students Report Feeling “Hunted”

Dakar, Senegal – Protests continue at Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD) in Dakar following the death of a second-year medical student, Abdoulaye Ba, during clashes with police on Monday, February 10, 2026. While the majority of the 109 students initially detained have been released after questioning on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, three student organization leaders remain in custody, sparking fears among their peers.

According to reports, the arrests took place both on and off campus, even while the university was attempting to restore calm. Students allege that some were apprehended inside hospital facilities while visiting injured classmates.

“Imagine that the president of the Medical Students Association was arrested while he was inside Fann Hospital, very probably to visit students who were injured… It’s crazy!” said Alioune Diallo, a former leader of the association. Diallo added, “Students have given everything to this regime: they have done everything to ensure Senegal becomes a country of law. It’s deplorable!”

Students Claim to be “Hunted”

The Association of Young Lawyers of Senegal (Ajas), providing legal representation to the students, stated that all those questioned were released except for the three organization leaders. This has led to widespread anxiety among students, with many reporting they feel “hunted” and are going into hiding.

A group of students held a press conference from a secret location on Wednesday afternoon to denounce what they consider a serious violation of the rule of law and academic freedom, calling for the immediate release of their colleagues.

Police officials, contacted by RFI, stated that the three remaining detainees are being held on charges related to disturbing public order, participating in an unauthorized demonstration, destruction of public and private property, vandalism, and acts of violence.

Authorities are urging respect for the ongoing investigation. “If any offenses are found to have been committed, responsibilities should be established regardless of where they lie, in order to draw all the consequences with the impartiality that is required,” stated Abdoul Aziz Diouf, Director General of Higher Education at the Ministry of Higher Education.

The unrest stems from ongoing protests over delayed financial aid payments to students. The death of Abdoulaye Ba has intensified anger and frustration among Senegal’s youth, who accuse the government of failing to fulfill promises made to them. Authorities closed the campus of Cheikh Anta Diop University on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, following the student’s death.

The situation remains tense as students await the outcome of the investigation and the release of their colleagues. The events at UCAD highlight growing discontent among young people in Senegal regarding unmet expectations and perceived broken promises from the government.