08 Feb 2024 | 02:43 PM UTC
Senegal: Civil society organizations announce nationwide protests Feb. 13 following postponement of presidential election to late 2024 /update 5
Civil society organizations announce protests across Senegal Feb. 13 after election postponed. Authorities announce increased security.
Civil society organizations, including political parties, religious organizations, and trade unions, gathered under the newly formed platform "Aar Sunu Election" (Let's protect our election) have announced nationwide protests for Feb. 13; further protests have been announced through mid-February. This follows the government's postponement of the Feb. 25 election to Dec. 15. Authorities have announced extraordinary security dispositions; no protests have been approved.
Other calls for protests include: a stay-away strike, or "ville morte", in Dakar on Feb. 9; nationwide opposition gatherings from 15:00 Feb. 9 in Dakar, Ziguinchor, Thies, Mbacke, Tivouane, and Mbour; a sit-in protest at the Walf TV headquarters in Dakar, Feb. 9-11.
Further protest locations and events are likely to be announced in the coming days. Senegalese authorities have previously banned a large number of opposition protests and imposed strict limitations on demonstrations. Heightened security is likely nationwide, notably in Dakar and Ziguinchor; security force deployments will probably be exceptionally high near public squares and government facilities. Authorities will likely use force to disperse any protests that materialize. Officials could implement further telecommunications disruptions and other restrictions.
Exercise vigilance while operating in Senegal, especially in Dakar. Avoid all demonstrations that may materialize. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Confirm all travel arrangements before departure, including to and from DSS. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Remain cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel.
The Feb. 5 report and subsequent unrest follow President Macky Sall's Feb. 3 announcement that the postponement was due to disputes over the electoral candidate list and to promote a fair, inclusive, and transparent election. The postponement, announced on the eve of the campaign's commencement, comes amid an ongoing investigation into Constitutional Council members. It was supported by several government officials and further confirmed after the National Assembly voted on Feb. 5 to set the new date for Dec. 15.
The Feb. 5 voting took place after security forces forcefully removed several opposition lawmakers, who tried to block the voting process, from the legislative building. Protests immediately followed the announcement, and clashes occurred between opposition supporters and security forces outside the legislative building. Authorities reportedly blocked internet access Feb. 4-5. On Feb. 6, some opposition activists and MPs were arrested as they planned to protest in the capital. Several civil society groups called for a general strike on Feb. 8.
Foreign governments such as France, the UK, and the US advise their citizens to increase vigilance and warn of potential unrest that may lead to road blockages, including to and from Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) servicing Dakar.
