Senegal/Dakar was the scene of a peaceful demonstration bringing together thousands of opponents

This Saturday, February 17, Dakar was the scene of a peaceful demonstration bringing together thousands of opponents, thus marking a moment of appeasement in Senegal after two weeks of intense political tensions linked to the postponement of the presidential election on February 25. 

Dressed in black T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan "Aar Sunu Election" ("Let's protect our election"), the demonstrators expressed their support for a transparent electoral process and demanded respect for the electoral calendar. The signs held up carried strong messages, such as “No to the constitutional coup” or “Free Senegal”. Unlike previous demonstrations, this march was authorized by the authorities, and although law enforcement was present, they were not equipped to quell possible unrest. 

The opposition, having strongly criticized the postponement of the presidential election which it described as a "constitutional coup d'état", welcomed with some relief the decision of President Macky Sall to comply with the opinion of the Constitutional Council which annuls this postponement. However, doubts remain about the president's sincerity. The popularity of imprisoned opponent Ousmane Sonko was demonstrated once again by the crowd, with chants of support echoing throughout the march. 

This demonstration comes as international pressure intensifies for a rapid resolution of the political crisis in Senegal. The chairperson of the African Union Commission called for “inclusive, free and transparent” elections as soon as possible. As President Macky Sall's term expires on April 2, details regarding the new date of the presidential election remain to be determined.