Devendra Kumar
The government of Senegal has taken the drastic measure of restricting mobile internet access in the capital city of Dakar and other parts of the country, sparking widespread protests and unrest. The move comes as the country’s presidential election has been postponed, causing tension and uncertainty. The election was previously scheduled for February 25, but President Macky Sall, who is seeking re-election, has cited a dispute between the judiciary and parliament over the disqualification of some candidates as the reason for the postponement.
Opposition leaders have condemned the move, calling it a “coup” and an attempt to extend Sall’s tenure beyond the scheduled end of his term on April 2. The government claims that the restriction on internet access is necessary to prevent the spread of “hateful and subversive messages” on social media, but opposition leaders accuse the government of abusing its power and attempting to manipulate the narrative surrounding the election.
The African Union has urged the government to organize the election as soon as possible, calling on all parties to resolve any political disputes through consultation, understanding, and civilized dialogue. The postponement of the election is unprecedented in Senegal’s history of democratic elections, and the decision has raised concerns about the legitimacy of the process. Sall’s action is seen as an attempt to consolidate power and extend his term beyond its scheduled end, which has deepened political tensions in the country.
As a result, widespread protests have broken out across the country, with opposition supporters gathering outside the legislature and security forces firing tear gas to disperse them. Protesters have also burned tyres and blocked access roads in Dakar, with several arrests made. The situation in Senegal remains tense and volatile, with many fearing for the future of democracy in the country. The government’s restriction on internet access has been seen as an attempt to silence opposition voices and prevent the spread of dissenting messages on social media, but opposition leaders continue to voice their opposition to the move.
The political crisis in Senegal has raised concerns about the stability of the country and the region, with many wondering what the future holds for democracy in the country. The international community has been calling for calm and for the election to be held as soon as possible, but the situation remains unclear. The government’s decision to restrict internet access has sparked widespread condemnation, and many are calling for freedom of speech and expression to be respected. The situation in Senegal remains fluid, and it is unclear what the future holds for the country’s democracy.