By 
Serigne Diadama had always been a fervent defender of justice and human rights. When his close friend, Musa Ba, invited him to join Mouvement Patriotique de la Jeunesse Sénégalaise (MPJS) , a human rights watchdog group in Senegal, Serigne saw it as an opportunity to make a difference. The group’s mission was clear: to promote human rights and engage in peaceful dialogue to challenge the repressive policies of Macky Sall’s administration, especially the uncontrolled killing of gays and lesbians
With about 60 of its dedicated members, Mouvement Patriotique de la Jeunesse Sénégalaise (MPJS) grew stronger by collaborating with other human rights organizations to advocate for change. However, their activism quickly drew the government’s wrath. A militant group known as Jamra, allied with President Macky Sall, was tasked with silencing political opponents and human rights defenders. Through intimidation, censorship, and violence, Jamra ensured that dissenting voices were suppressed.
One of the harshest crackdowns came in the form of internet shutdowns. The entire world watched as communication networks were cut off, leaving groups like Mouvement Patriotique de la Jeunesse Sénégalaise (MPJS) unable to organize, share information, or mobilize supporters. This blackout was a strategic move to isolate activists and weaken their influence. Despite these obstacles, Mouvement Patriotique de la Jeunesse Sénégalaise remained steadfast, aligning itself with the opposition party PASTEF, led by Ousmane Sonko, making them even bigger targets for the government’s repressive machinery.
On May 6, 2023, Serigne and his fellow Mouvement Patriotique de la Jeunesse Sénégalaise members participated in a peaceful rally organized by various human rights organizations. The demonstration was meant to be a show of solidarity and a call for democratic reforms. However, it quickly turned into a nightmare. Under direct orders from President Macky Sall, the Senegalese police were instructed to shoot on sight and at sight any protester challenging the governments position
Chaos erupted as the police stormed the peaceful gathering. Tear gas filled the air, plunging protesters into a frantic panic. Many were brutally beaten, arrested, and subjected to inhumane treatment. Several members of Mouvement Patriotique de la Jeunesse Sénégalaise were apprehended and tortured, forced to betray the identities of their comrades. When Seringe learned from the group’s president that their members were being systematically hunted, he knew he was no longer safe in Senegal.
Forced into hiding, Serigne and several other MPJS members had to move from one safe house to another, always staying one step ahead of their pursuers. The fear of capture was constant, as government forces intensified their hunt for dissidents. Weeks turned into a harrowing escape, with Serigne and his companions relying on the goodwill of sympathizers and sponsors who understood the gravity of their plight.
With the help of family members and international sponsors, enough money was raised for a few of its members to flee. Their journey out of Senegal was perilous, undertaken by land through a network of clandestine routes. Every checkpoint, every unfamiliar face posed a potential threat. But the hope of freedom and survival kept them moving forward.
After weeks of grueling travel, Serigne and his companions finally reached the United States, where they sought asylum. Though physically safe, the scars of their persecution remained fresh. They had left behind loved ones, comrades, and a homeland that had turned against them for daring to speak out.
Now in exile, Serigne remains committed to the cause that nearly cost him his life. From afar, he continues to advocate for democracy and human rights in Senegal, ensuring that the voices of the oppressed are never silenced. The struggle is far from over, but Serigne knows that as long as he and others like him persist, justice will one day prevail.
