The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reacted to the directive of Senegal’s leader Macky Sall to postpone the presidential elections earlier scheduled to be held on February 25.
The postponement, which marks the first time in the country’s history, sparked protests and clashes between the supporters of opposition parties and law enforcement agencies in the capital of Dakar.
The ECOWAS released a statement through its verified X (Twitter) handle to express concern over the turn of events in Senegal.
“The ECOWAS Commission expresses concern over the circumstances that have led to the postponement of the elections and appeals to the competent authorities to expedite the various processes in order to set a new date for the elections,” the ECOWAS communique partly read.
It also saluted President Sall for upholding his decision not to run for another term, urging him to defend and protect Senegal’s “long-standing democratic tradition“.
Responding to the call of opposition candidates, a diverse crowd gathered in Dakar to express their discontent.
The peaceful demonstration escalated into chaos as police deployed tear gas, prompting protesters to retaliate by throwing rocks. The clash paints a vivid picture of a nation caught in the throes of political unrest.
Presidential candidates, defying the official postponement, declared the launch of their campaigns on the same day.
The RFM opposition party categorically rejected the delay, vowing to mobilise the Senegalese people for a defiant march.
Opposition figures, including former mayor Khalifa Sall, called for unity among pro-democratic forces to confront what they deem a constitutional coup.
