Senegal: Activists plan to demonstrate in Dakar March 29-30; additional protests possible across country March 30 and April 3

Event

Opposition activists associated with the Yewwi Askan Wi (Liberate the People) coalition have called for demonstrations in Dakar March 29-30. Coalition members have also reportedly called for nationwide protests March 30, as well as additional demonstrations April 3. The purpose of the planned protest actions is to denounce alleged arbitrary arrests following recent clashes connected with the defamation trial of Ousmane Sonko, leader of the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics, and Fraternity (PASTEF) party, among other issues.

Details regarding the demonstrations have been reported as follows:

• 15:00-18:00 March 29 and 15:00-18:00 March 30: Activists plan to march in Dakar from the Universite Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD) roundabout to the Medina Post roundabout via Cheikh Anta Diop Avenue.

• March 30: Protest organizers have reportedly called for demonstrations at unspecified locations in all departments of the country.

• April 3: Coalition activists have reportedly called for additional, unspecified "mobilizations" ahead of the April 4 Independence Day holiday.

Additional gatherings are possible around the courthouse complex (Palais de Justice) in the capital March 29-30 ahead of Sonko being summoned to the Dakar High Court for a high-profile hearing March 30. Authorities have notably banned the planned March 29-30 protest marches in Dakar due to the perceived threat that they would pose to public order and to ensure the "free movement of persons and goods." Given these restrictions, it was not immediately clear how many participants the demonstrations would draw.

Regardless of protest participation, security forces will likely deploy to the sites of any related gatherings that materialize in Dakar or elsewhere across the country over the coming days. In the event of significant unrest, authorities may implement movement restrictions, vehicle checks, or curfew measures. Heightened security is also likely around the courthouse complex in the capital amid the March 30 court hearing. Transport and business disruptions are likely in areas subject to protest activity and increased security. Demonstrators may engage in acts of looting and vandalism. Clashes between demonstrators and police are possible, especially if activists fail to heed any orders to disperse.

Context

Sonko is facing multiple criminal charges which he claims are part of a plot orchestrated by President Macky Sall to sideline the political opposition. His legal and political challenges have previously prompted significant unrest, including violent clashes between his supporters and security forces in recent weeks. Additionally, his arrest and indictment in March 2021 on rape charges triggered riots, vandalism, and looting that left around a dozen people dead. Moreover, clashes broke out in June 2022 after authorities invalidated his party's candidate list for the July legislative elections, resulting in several deaths.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations due to the potential for violence. Plan for traffic disruptions and allow additional time to reach destinations in areas affected by protest activity and heightened security measures. Leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Avoid unnecessary travel in Dakar during times when unrest is occurring or planned. Monitor local media for updated information. Heed all official security and traffic advisories.