11 May 2022 | 10:45 AM UTC
Senegal: Activists plan protests in Dakar May 13, 20, 27 /update 1
Political activists to protest in Dakar, Senegal, May 13, 20, 27. Police may ban protests; violence possible.
Event
The COLICOD (Collectif pour la liberation de Cheikh Oumar Diagne), encompassing several civil society groups, has called for protests in Dakar May 13, 20, and 27, to demand the release of an anti-Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) rights activist. Cheikh Oumar Diagne was recently arrested and sued for defamation and public insults. The following events are planned.
May 13: March from UCAD roundabout towards Medina roundabout from 15:00.
May 20: March from Medina roundabout towards Reubeuss prison.
May 27: Sit-in at Place de l’Indépendance.
Start times for the May 20 and May 27 gatherings remain unclear.
Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all gatherings and marches. It remains unclear whether authorities have granted permission for the events. Authorities banned a similar demonstration April 27. Despite the ban, activists took the streets; police arrested several participants. The potential for clashes with security forces is elevated. Further protests may occur over the coming weeks to press the release of the activist.
Advice
Avoid the protest sites and plan accordingly for ground travel disruptions on the affected days. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Depart the area at the first sign of a confrontation.
