Senegal: Rally Against Presidential Election Postponement
Sudan Events – Sumaya Sayed
Senegalese citizens took to the streets to protest against the potential extension of President Macky Sall’s term beyond April 2nd, the date designated by the constitution for the transfer of power. Carrying flags and banners emblazoned with messages such as “Election by force” and “Terminus April 2nd,” demonstrators voiced their staunch opposition to any attempt to prolong Sall’s presidency.
Organized by a citizen platform, the protest garnered widespread support from individuals across various segments of society. Chimere Manga, one of the protesters, emphasized the importance of Senegal’s sovereignty, declaring, “Senegal does not belong to a third-party community that should dictate the fate of its people.” She condemned what she perceived as unjust imprisonments and the closure of universities, issues emblematic of broader grievances against the current administration.
The demonstration, characterized by its peaceful nature, marked a notable departure from previous instances of civil unrest in the country. While initially intended as a silent march, the protest evolved into a spirited expression of demands, particularly from supporters of opposition figure Ousmane Sonko, who called for his release.
