Senegalese lawyers express their dissatisfaction with worsening financial difficulties. According to Les Echos, some agreements with law firms have been suspended and, more seriously, payments related to legal aid have been blocked since the arrival of the new regime.

Legal aid, which allows for the payment of lawyers appointed to defend accused individuals in criminal cases, is essential, especially when hearings are held in cities like Tambacounda, Saint-Louis or Kaolack. Senegalese law requires that in criminal matters, every accused person must be assisted by a lawyer. If no lawyer is available, the State appoints one and covers their fees.

However, according to Les Echos, some lawyers have still not been paid for 5 to 10 legal aid cases. The State already owed funds since the mandate of Macky Sall, but these delays had been resolved thanks to Me Aïssata Tall Sall. Today, these payments are once again blocked with the arrival of the new regime.

Legal professionals warn: if this situation persists and lawyers refuse to assist accused individuals, it could paralyze the functioning of the courts, especially investigating judges in criminal cases.