The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a stern warning against any breakdown of constitutional provisions in Senegal amidst the ongoing political turmoil sparked by the presidential election.
Tensions escalated as Senegalese lawmakers were forcefully removed from parliament following a contentious vote to postpone the presidential elections until the end of the year. This move, criticized by opposition members, aims to extend President Macky Sall’s tenure.
The vote, held recently, concluded with riot police evicting opposition politicians from the parliament building in the capital, Dakar. President Sall, already at his two-term limit, stirred controversy by announcing the delay of the February 25 election, citing concerns over candidate approvals.
However, analysts speculate that the delay was motivated by fears within the ruling party of potential electoral defeat. The postponement, ratified by parliament, has left Senegal in a precarious state, risking its reputation for political stability in a region marred by coups and insurgencies.
The postponement bill, introduced by an opposition lawmaker aligned with Sall’s coalition, initially proposed a one-year delay. However, an amendment set the new date for December 15, prompting opposition protests that halted proceedings for two hours before their expulsion by police.
MP Guy Marius Sagna accused President Sall of attempting a “putsch” and criticized parliamentary leaders for stifling debate. Outside parliament, police dispersed protesters with tear gas, while armed officers patrolled the capital to deter further demonstrations.
In response to the crisis, ECOWAS issued a statement from its headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, expressing concern and urging adherence to constitutional norms. The Commission stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability, calling on all stakeholders to refrain from violence and respect citizens’ rights.
ECOWAS urged Senegal’s political class to urgently restore the electoral calendar in line with the Constitution and pledged continued support for the country’s democratic traditions. As tensions mount in Senegal, ECOWAS stands ready to assist the government and people in navigating these challenging times while upholding democratic principles and safeguarding stability in the region.
