The appeal trial of Dieynaba Ndiaye, scheduled for Monday, December 9, 2024, is attracting keen attention in Senegal. This young woman, incarcerated for several weeks, hopes to see her judgment revised to regain her freedom. Supported by feminist groups and many citizens, she is considered a victim of domestic violence unjustly imprisoned.
Background of the case
In February 2024, Dieynaba Ndiaye married Alioune Badara Mbacké, chief doctor of the Matam health district. Their union quickly took a dramatic turn: from the first weeks, Ms. Ndiaye reported physical and psychological violence. In March, a violent argument broke out when she discovered compromising messages on her husband’s phone. The altercation caused him serious injuries, justified by a medical certificate of temporary incapacity for work for 10 days.
Controversial convictions
Despite a complaint filed by Ms. Ndiaye for “intentional bodily harm, violence, assault, insults and failure to assist a person in danger”, she found herself accused of “unlawful collection of personal data”. The court then sentenced her to three months in prison and a fine of four million CFA francs, a decision which shocked public opinion.
Alioune Badara Mbacké, for his part, was tried on October 23, 2024. He received 45 days in prison for domestic violence, a sentence considered light by women’s rights defenders.
Mobilization for his release
The conviction of Dieynaba Ndiaye caused a wave of indignation. Feminist and human rights organizations denounced justice perceived as biased, calling for his immediate release. Several demonstrations took place, also demanding a position from the Order of Physicians on the behavior of Dr Mbacké.
During her 49 days of detention at the Liberté 6 Women’s Prison, Ms. Ndiaye’s state of health seriously deteriorated, requiring her hospitalization in Dakar. His lawyer, worried, warned of the psychological and physical impact of the events, fearing a worsening of his sentence.
This appeal trial represents a final chance for Dieynaba Ndiaye to regain her freedom and see her dignity restored. The case has become a symbol of the fight against violence against women and the need for fair justice.
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