John AdoyiIn a move that has stirred both political controversy and public outcry, Senegal’s lawmakers have approved the postponement of the presidential election from February 25 to December 15.
The decision, which received parliamentary backing late on Monday, has been met with criticism, with many alleging it aims to restrict opposition participation in the upcoming poll.
President Macky Sall, who is set to step down from office come April, had previously announced the postponement on Saturday, citing problems with opposition candidates. However, the decision sparked violent demonstrations across the country, as citizens expressed frustration and dissatisfaction with the delay.
The bill to postpone the election garnered support from 105 out of 165 members of the assembly, effectively extending Sall’s tenure until his successor is installed. Originally scheduled for February 25, the further delay of the election raises concerns about potential unrest and exacerbating tensions within the country.
President Sall, who has served the maximum two terms, has insisted he has no intentions of extending his stay in office. Nevertheless, skepticism looms among protesters, particularly regarding his treatment of opposition leaders. Critics view the postponement as a strategic maneuver to limit the participation of opposition candidates and manipulate the democratic process.
Opposition leaders have vehemently condemned the move, labeling it a “constitutional coup” and an assault on democracy. The announcement of the delay, just as campaigning was set to commence, has intensified discontent among opposition ranks. At least three opposition candidates have pledged to challenge the decision in court, signaling a potential legal battle in the days ahead.
The parliamentary session, during which the bill was ratified, was marked by tension, as some opposition lawmakers sought to obstruct the voting process. Despite their efforts, the measure passed, further deepening the divide between the ruling party and its critics.
The African Union and other international bodies have appealed for calm and an amicable solution to the electoral dispute in the nation that has been praised by many as one of the stable democracies in Africa.
