02 Feb 2024 | 12:01 AM UTC
Senegal: Tight security, political rallies, and disruptions likely nationwide until at least late February ahead of the Feb. 25 presidential election
Tight security, political rallies, disruptions likely across Senegal through at least late February before Feb. 25 presidential election.
Authorities will likely increase the security posture nationwide through at at least late February ahead of the presidential election slated to take place Feb. 25. Large-scale political events and demonstrations are likely to occur in the days ahead as official campaigning begins Feb. 4. The Constitutional Council of Senegal announced on Feb. 21 that 20 candidates will participate in the presidential election. The move further restricts several high-profile opposition candidates, including jailed opposition leader and previous head of the now defunct African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF) party, Ousmane Sonko.
The tense political environment will almost certainly escalate as election day approaches. Demonstrations, rallies, and protests are almost certain, particularly in Dakar and other urban areas. Security force deployments will probably be exceptionally high near public squares, polling stations, and government facilities to prevent violence. Authorities will likely use force to disperse any protests that materialize, and clashes remain possible. Enhanced security measures may include the establishment of additional checkpoints, curfews, and vehicle travel restrictions. Acts of looting and vandalism, including arson, cannot be ruled out. Other travel restrictions, particularly in Ziguinchor, may be imposed with little warning. Disruptions to urban and intercity transport, business operations, telecommunications, internet, and social media are possible amid significant bouts of civil unrest or during preemptive security operations.
Exercise caution while operating in Senegal. Avoid all gatherings, political events, and election-related activities, as well as concentrations of security forces. Exercise caution near police offices, and government buildings. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Monitor local news for updates on possible curfews, or for information on road conditions, as political rallies may not announce actions in advance. Heed the advice of local authorities. If encountering police checkpoints, remain polite and courteous.
Elected in 2022 as mayor of Ziguinchor, Sonko's legal and political challenges have previously prompted deadly violence. Protests and clashes notably broke out after Sonko received a six-month suspended prison sentence and a fine for his alleged defamation of Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang on May 8, 2023. Moreover, Sonko was convicted on charges of "corruption of youth" and sentenced to two years in prison; however, he was acquitted on charges of raping and making death threats against a woman who worked in a massage parlor on June 1, 2023. Clashes reportedly broke out in areas across the country immediately following the court proceeding, and at least 16 people were killed amid two days of demonstrations.
Opposition candidate Karim Wade, son of former president Abdoulaye Wade, was also barred from the upcoming presidential election due to his perceived dual Senegalese-French nationality. The incumbent, President Macky Sall, announced previously that he would not seek a third term in office due to constitutional limitations; instead, Sall will likely support Prime Minister Amadou Ba as his successor. Despite a ban on protest activity by authorities in Senegal, opposition activists may stage additional protests and rallies on short notice in the coming days. A runoff election remains possible if a candidate fails to garner 50% plus one vote of the results and may be held approximately four weeks following the presidential election.
