Clashes erupted in the Senegalese capital on Friday as hundreds of protesters voiced their opposition to the recent postponement of the country’s presidential election.
Security forces responded with tear gas, stun grenades, and what appeared to be rubber bullets, marking the most significant demonstration against the controversial decision.
The unrest stems from parliament’s vote to push back the February 25th election to December, effectively extending President Macky Sall’s term.
Despite reaching his two-term limit, Sall argues the delay was necessary due to a dispute over the candidate list that threatened electoral integrity.
Critics, however, view the move as a power grab, jeopardizing Senegal’s status as a beacon of democracy in a region plagued by coups and unrest.
Protesters chanting “Macky Sall is a dictator” clashed with police, burning tires and throwing stones.
Justice Minister Aissata Tall Sall attempted to quell the tension, asserting that the postponement was “done in perfect conformity with the constitution” and resulted from parliamentary action, not the president’s personal decision.
Further complicating the situation, opposition groups and presidential candidates have challenged the delay in the Constitutional Court.
However, Sall argues these challenges fall outside the court’s jurisdiction, leaving the legal pathway unclear. While acknowledging the unprecedented uncertainty surrounding the election, Sall maintained that opponents resorting to legal channels demonstrates “we are in a functioning democracy.”
Senegal, largely spared from the instability plaguing other West African nations, now faces a crucial test of its democratic principles. This unprecedented election delay has triggered concerns and raised questions about the future of democratic processes in the region.
