Senegal’s parliament descended into chaos as lawmakers voted to postpone the presidential election until December 15, following President Macky Sall’s decision to delay the crucial vote initially slated for February 25. The voting process was marred by the forceful removal of opposition lawmakers from the chambers, prompting widespread criticism and accusations of a “constitutional coup” by opposition leaders.
Security forces fired tear gas at protesters outside the legislative building, leading to arrests and violent clashes in the streets of the capital, Dakar. The government’s decision to cut access to mobile internet in certain districts further fueled tensions, exacerbating concerns about democratic norms and freedom of expression.
International actors, including the United States, European Union, and France, have expressed growing concern and called for the rescheduling of the election. This unprecedented move marks the first time since independence in 1963 that Senegal has postponed a presidential vote, highlighting the gravity of the political situation in the West African nation.