In a series of tragic events that have ignited widespread unrest, Senegalese security forces have been implicated in the deaths of at least three individuals, including a teenager, amidst escalating protests. The demonstrations erupted following President Macky Sall’s contentious decision to postpone the country’s elections, originally slated for late February, stirring international concern over the stability of one of West Africa’s most celebrated democracies.
Amnesty International revealed that the protests, which took place across various cities including the capital Dakar, Saint-Louis, and Ziguinchor on February 9th and 10th, saw 16-year-old Landing Camara tragically lose his life to a gunshot wound to the head. The rights organization’s statement underscored the gravity of the situation, as citizens voice their frustration over the delayed electoral process and perceived governmental overreach.
Senegalese gendarmes patrol a road during demonstrations called by opposition parties in Dakar. (John Wessels/AFP)
Amadou Samb, a protest organizer, lamented the authorities’ refusal to authorize another significant demonstration planned for Tuesday evening, encapsulating the essence of their struggle for rights and representation. Meanwhile, the government’s decision to restrict mobile internet access, citing the spread of “hateful and subversive” messages, has only added fuel to the fire, drawing criticism for stifling free expression.
The unrest follows President Sall’s announcement to delay the elections until December 15th, citing the need to address legal controversies and conflicts within the government. This move has sparked accusations against Sall of attempting to extend his tenure unduly, allegations he denied in a recent interview with The Associated Press.
The international community, including the United Nations and the West African regional bloc ECOWAS, has expressed deep concern over the developments. The U.N. has called for immediate, thorough investigations into the protester killings, emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and urging the Senegalese government to foster an inclusive national dialogue.
