Tensions escalated in Dakar, the capital of Senegal, as clashes broke out between police and protesters following the court's decision to impose a two-year prison sentence on an opposition leader.

Ousmane Sonko, who had been accused of rape at a massage parlour, was acquitted of the charges.

However, he was found guilty of a different criminal offence involving immoral behaviour towards an individual under the age of 21, known as "corrupting the youth" under Senegalese law.

Maintaining his innocence, Mr. Sonko's supporters perceive the trial as a deliberate attempt to hinder his participation in the upcoming presidential race scheduled for next year.

The verdict has ignited public outrage and sparked demonstrations, with protesters taking to the streets of Dakar to express their discontent with the court's decision and to show solidarity with the opposition leader.

The clashes between protesters and law enforcement have raised concerns about the stability and political atmosphere in Senegal as the nation prepares for significant electoral events in the near future.

This story continues to unfold, and the developments are being closely monitored by both national and international observers, who are keen to assess the impact of this sentencing on the country's political landscape.