Outrage and joy after verdicts in Senegal terror trial

The lawyer for the man sentenced to 20 years in prison on terrorism-related charges in Senegal says he will appeal against the ruling.

Alassane Cisse said he was "outraged" by the sentence given to Makhtar Diokhane, in the biggest mass trial of suspected militant Islamists in the Muslim-majority state known for upholding a moderate version of Islam.

"I will immediately appeal this ruling. I have no intention of letting Matar Diokhane stay in prison for 20 years," Mr Cisse added.

Prominent lmam Alioune Ndao was acquitted on charges of being a financier of "terrorism", but was given a suspended prison sentence for illegally possessing weapons.

Welcoming the ruling, his lawyer Moussa Sarr said:

It's a fight we have been fighting for three years. We fought it before the court. We also fought a media battle to protect the dignity of Imam Ndao, who is a role model for this country.

He should be an inspiration for a lot of religious leaders. So, we thank God and, in spite of all the difficulties we have met, we are proud of our justice today."