Senegal: Protests likely nationwide after National Assembly votes late Feb. 5 to postpone presidential election /update 3

Protests are likely to continue across Senegal, particularly Dakar, after the National Assembly voted late Feb. 5 to postpone the presidential election from Feb. 25 to Dec. 15. The voting took place after security forces forcefully removed several opposition lawmakers, who tried to block the voting process, from the legislative building. Clashes occurred between opposition supporters and security forces outside the legislative building Feb. 5; protesters also barricaded roads and burnt tires in Dakar. Police used tear gas to disperse demonstrators. Internet disruptions were reported Feb. 4-5 following protests against the election postponement.

The unrest follows 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 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 nationwide, including Dakar, in the coming days. Security force deployments will probably be exceptionally high near public squares and government facilities to prevent any violence. 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.