Senegal has suspended TikTok, citing its use to fuel violence following the arrest of opposition figure Ousmane Sonko.

The government believes the video-sharing platform is being exploited by ill-intentioned individuals to disseminate hateful and subversive messages that threaten the country’s stability.

The unrest erupted after Sonko was charged with various crimes, leading to protests and clashes that resulted in several deaths.

The government’s decision to dissolve Sonko’s party, PASTEF, has been criticized by human rights groups, who argue it violates freedom of expression and democratic participation.

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have also condemned the internet restrictions imposed by the authorities.

Sonko, who already faces other convictions, could receive a prison sentence ranging from five to twenty years for the new charges.