Current events in Senegal are marked by violent demonstrations following President Macky Sall’s decision to postpone the presidential election scheduled for February 25. This situation plunges the country into one of the most serious crises it has experienced in decades.
These events have attracted the attention of the United Nations Office for Human Rights, which expresses deep concern over the escalation of tensions in Senegal. Liz Throssell, a spokesperson for the organization, was particularly concerned about the alleged use of excessive and disproportionate force against protesters, as well as restrictions on civic space.
The UN calls on the Senegalese authorities to respect democracy and human rights, urging them to respond to the population’s demands. Macky Sall’s government responded by suspending internet access on mobiles for the second time this month, citing the dissemination of subversive hate messages on social networks, which incited violent demonstrations.
This decision to cut off access to mobile data is condemned by human rights activists, who see it as a violation of freedom of expression and a tactic aimed at repressing mobilization and communication via social networks.
Additionally, authorities banned the peaceful rally organized by the Aar Sunu Election collective, citing fears of traffic disruptions. Although the collective chose to postpone the march to comply with the law, this decision reflects ongoing tensions between the government and opposition groups over the management of the electoral process.
Macky Sall’s decision to postpone the election has been contested by various parties, including civil society organizations and opposition parties, who see it as an attempt to extend Sall’s mandate.
This situation in Senegal highlights the challenges that many countries face when it comes to ensuring democracy, respect for human rights and freedom of expression. It is essential that the Senegalese authorities engage in an open dialogue with the population and seek to address their concerns, while ensuring that fundamental rights are respected.
Suspending internet access and banning peaceful gatherings cannot be lasting solutions and only increase tensions. It is time to open a space for constructive and inclusive dialogue in order to find peaceful and democratic solutions for the Senegalese people.