Senegal: Increased security likely nationwide through at least the end of March following recent presidential election /update 15

Heightened security is likely across Senegal through at least the end of March following the nation's recent presidential election. The polls took place on March 24, with opposition candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye defeating former Prime Minister Amadou Ba with a sufficient margin to avoid a second-round runoff. Spontaneous celebratory gatherings reportedly occurred in the streets of Dakar following the March 25 announcement of Faye's victory.

Although the election itself occurred largely peacefully, it took place against the backdrop of almost daily protests that took place during February in several parts of the country after an initial - and ultimately unsuccessful - attempt by President Macky Sall to postpone the polls. Although the situation had improved by election day, authorities will probably maintain increased security, particularly in Dakar and Ziguinchor, out of an abundance of caution. Police could be quick to use force to disperse any disruptive gatherings that may materialize. Post-election violence remains possible.