Senegal: Activists plan protest march in Dakar June 11

Event

The COLICOD (Collectif pour la liberation de Cheikh Oumar Diagne), encompassing several civil society groups, has called for protests in Dakar June 11. Participants will gather at Place de l'Obelisque (also called Place de la Nation) from 14:00 and march toward the RTS roundabout; the protest may last through early evening. The action is to demand the release of anti-Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) rights activist Cheikh Oumar Diagne. Diagne was recently arrested and sued for defamation and public insults.

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 similar demonstrations in previous weeks. Despite the ban, activists took the streets April 27; 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.