| By AGUEH Dossi Sekonnou Gloria, RFLD President As the Steering Committee Member of West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS), I write to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding the current political situation in Senegal. The recent decision by President Macky Sall to delay the February 25th presidential election and extend his mandate has raised serious questions about the future of democracy in the country. This move, met with widespread condemnation, arbitrary arrests and protests, raises crucial questions about the future of democratic principles and respect for the will of the people in Senegal. As a Member of WADEMOS Steering committee, RFLD joins the delegation in its recent solidarity mission to Senegal, during which we engaged with stakeholders like the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENA), Senegalese Human Rights Committee (CSDH), Director General of Elections of Senegal, media and civil society groups, laid bare the deep-seated anxiety and frustration simmering beneath the surface. The postponement, despite established legal frameworks and completed preparations, is widely perceived as a strategic maneuver to manipulate the constitution and cling to power. This manipulation extends to the forceful removal of opposition lawmakers during the parliamentary vote on the extension. Such tactics not only tarnish the image of democratic institutions but also cast serious doubt on the integrity of the entire electoral process. This blatant disregard for democratic principles and disrespect for the will of the people set a dangerous precedent for Senegal’s future. The situation in Senegal transcends national borders. As a member of WADEMOS, RFLD stands firmly with the Senegalese people in their demand for free, fair, and transparent elections. We urge President Sall to: Reverse his decision: Respect the established constitutional order and allow the February 25th election to proceed as planned. Engage in dialogue: Initiate open and inclusive dialogue with opposition parties, civil society, and independent institutions to find a peaceful and sustainable solution. Commit to transparency: Ensure complete transparency and accountability throughout the electoral process, including independent oversight and media access. The international community also has a vital role to play in upholding democracy in Senegal. We call upon them to: Publicly condemn: Unequivocally condemn the attempt to manipulate the electoral process and extend President Sall’s mandate. Exert pressure: Urge the Senegalese government to respect the constitution and uphold democratic principles. Support civil society: Increase support for independent civil society organizations working to promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process. Monitor closely: Continue to closely monitor the situation and call for accountability for any violations of democratic principles. The upcoming election is merely a symptom of a deeper issue. Senegal needs to address the underlying grievances that fuel political tensions. This necessitates a multi-pronged approach: Inclusive dialogue: Foster inclusive dialogue between all stakeholders, including opposition parties, civil society, and the government, to address concerns and build consensus on key reforms. Strengthening institutions: Invest in strengthening democratic institutions like the judiciary, the electoral commission, and the media to ensure their independence and impartiality. Addressing inequalities: Tackle social and economic inequalities that contribute to political instability and foster a more inclusive and equitable society. Promoting civic engagement: Empower citizens through civic education and engagement initiatives to actively participate in the democratic process.Senegal stands at a crossroads. The path it chooses will have far-reaching consequences not only for the nation itself but also for the wider West African region. RFLD remains committed to working with our partners in Senegal and the region to promote peace, democracy, and human rights. We urge all stakeholders in Senegal to: Prioritize dialogue: Choose the path of dialogue and compromise over confrontation and division. Respect the constitution: Uphold the sanctity of the constitution and the rule of law. Respect the will of the people: Allow the people to freely choose their leaders through a credible and transparent electoral process. The future of Senegal’s democracy hangs in the balance. It is a fragile flame that must be nurtured through dialogue, respect, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles. Let us hope that Senegal chooses the path of peace, stability, and a vibrant democracy that reflects the aspirations of its people. NOTE FOR EDITORS: The Women Leaders Network for Development – Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le développement (RFLD) is a feminist organization working to end discrimination, violence against women and girls, and promote gender equality and human rights in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Women Leaders Network for Development – Réseau des Femmes Leaders pour le Développement (RFLD) founded in 2012 is a regional organization based in West Africa working with 470 members from over 60 women-led member organizations across 27 countries to promote and protect the rights of youth and women and ensure their participation in decision-making spheres. |
