Senegal: Opposition calls for nationwide protests after Feb. 3 postponement of election /update 2

Opposition leaders have reportedly called for protests near the National Assembly in Dakar, Feb,. 5, following the announcement of the postponement of the upcoming presidential election; other protests are likely nationwide on Feb. 5 and in the coming days. The assembly is set to pass a motion on Feb. 5 postponing the election from Feb. 25 likely to Aug. 25. Clashes between opposition supporters and security forces were reported in Dakar on Feb. 4; protesters barricaded roads in Dakar and police used tear gas to disperse demonstrators. Internet disruptions were also reported on Feb. 4 and continued early Feb. 5.

The unrest follows President Macky Sall's Feb. 3 announcement that the cancellation was due to disputes over the electoral candidate list and to promote a fair, inclusive, and transparent election. The move came the day before candidates were to begin campaigning. The postponement also comes amid an ongoing investigation into Constitutional Council members. Recently, several government officials have called for the delay of the election, citing possible alleged misconduct within the Constitutional Council.

Heightened security is likely in Dakar on Feb. 5 and will likely persist nationwide in the coming days. Security force deployments will probably be exceptionally high near public squares and government facilities to prevent any violence. Demonstrations and rallies remain possible amid the tense political environment. Authorities will likely use force to disperse any protests that materialize, and clashes remain possible. Officials could implement further telecommunications disruptions to prevent protesters from organizing.