06 Mar 2024 | 10:30 PM UTC
Senegal: Tight security, political rallies, and disruptions likely nationwide until at least March 24 presidential election /update 13
Tight security, political rallies, disruptions likely across Senegal through at least March 24 presidential election.
Protests and episodes of unrest remain possible across Senegal at least through the nation's upcoming March 24 presidential election after President Macky Sall announced the dissolution of the government on March 6. Large-scale rallies and other gatherings are likely as political campaigning and the organization of the election begins. Following a Council of Ministers session and the government's dissolution, Sall appointed former Minister of Interior Sidiki Kaba as prime minister.
Various activist organizations will almost certainly exert whatever pressure they can through the election cycle, with the Aar Sunu Election (Let's Protect Our Election) platform - an umbrella group encompassing several political parties, religious organizations, and trade unions - probably organizing protests and other actions such as labor strikes in the coming days.
Political tensions will very likely increase as election day approaches. Authorities will probably deploy exceptionally high numbers of security forces near potential protest venues, such as public squares, polling stations, government facilities, and transport hubs, including Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS). Police could be quick to use force to disperse any protests that materialize, and clashes remain possible. Enhanced security measures may include checkpoints and curfews, among other restrictions. Acts of looting, arson, and general vandalism cannot be ruled out during demonstrations. Travel restrictions may be imposed with little warning, particularly in Ziguinchor. Disruptions to urban and intercity transport, business operations, telecommunications, internet, and social media are possible during significant bouts of civil unrest or preemptive security operations.
Exercise vigilance while operating in Senegal, especially in Dakar and Ziguinchor. 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.
On Feb. 3, Sall announced the postponement of the presidential polls - originally planned for Feb. 25 - until Dec. 15, asserting that the move was necessary due to disputes over the electoral candidate list and to promote a fair, inclusive, and transparent election. Made on the eve of campaign season, the announcement came amid an ongoing investigation into Constitutional Council members. The Constitutional Court ruled that the President's move was unconstitutional on Feb. 15. Moreover, on March 6, the Constitutional Council rejected the postponement of the presidential election before Sall's tenure expires on April 2. Previously, Sall announced that his mandate would end as planned on April 2; he has repeatedly said he would step down.
Since the announcement of the postponement, protests have been occurring on an almost daily basis in multiple parts of the country, including Dakar, Mbour, Saint Louis, Touba, Thies, and Zinguichor. Clashes between security forces and protesters have resulted in at least four fatalities across the country, including Dakar, Zinguinchor, and Saint Louis, while the use of live ammunition has injured an unspecified number of people. Officials have suspended mobile internet service on several occasions, including on Feb. 13, probably to inhibit activists' ability to mobilize.
Since the crisis erupted, foreign governments such as France, the UK, and the US have advised 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.
