Senegal will hold critical legislative elections on Sunday, determining if the new government can control the national assembly and push reforms.
The election follows heightened tensions after violent clashes during the March presidential race.
Campaigning has grown fierce, as the country faces a fiscal crisis that threatens economic stability.
Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, known for his fiery rhetoric, urged his supporters to remain strong but warned of consequences if attacked.
“Let them not say that we’ve changed,” he said.
Voters are focused on jobs and the economy, with inflation and rising unemployment pressing on households.
“We want affordable water, electricity, and transport,” said Cheikh Diagne, a street vendor in Dakar.
With over 7 million registered voters, Senegal will elect members for the 165-seat assembly from 41 political parties.
Polls open at 8 a.m. (0800 GMT) and close at 6 p.m.
Historically, Senegalese voters back the sitting president in parliamentary elections.
This time, the ruling party faces opposition from an alliance led by former Prime Minister Macky Sall’s party.
Amid economic struggles and political tension, the stakes for Senegal’s future are high.
