A 19-year-old has become the third casualty in the ongoing unrest in Senegal’s Ziguinchor, following President Macky Sall’s decision to delay the February 25 presidential vote.
The protests, marked by clashes between youths and security forces, are escalating, creating the country’s most significant crisis since gaining independence in 1960.
The teenager succumbed to injuries sustained during the clashes, where he was hit in the head by a projectile. The postponement of the election has triggered demonstrations in various cities, with Senegal’s stability and democracy reputation facing challenges in the face of growing unrest.
President Sall attributes the delay to a dispute between parliament and the Constitutional Council over disqualified candidates. Despite concerns, Sall has committed to not seeking a third term and aims for a process of “appeasement and reconciliation.”
The parliamentary backing has extended Sall’s term until a successor is determined, likely not before early 2025.
