Reuters —Senegalese police on Sunday cracked down on protests against the postponement of the presidential election, as parliament prepared to debate a bill that would reschedule the vote for August and extend President Macky Sall’s mandate.
“It (AU) strongly encourages all political and social forces to resolve any political dispute through civilized consultation, understanding and dialogue..,” the statement added.
Senegal has never delayed a presidential vote and uncertainty about what happens next threatens to fuel further unrest like the deadly protests of recent years that have tarnished its reputation as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies.
In one area, around 200 people retreated into side streets after police in riot gear fired tear gas and started detaining protesters.
Further protests are planned outside parliament on Monday.
Persons:
Macky Sall’s, Sall, ”, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Daouda Ndiaye, Anta Babacar Ngom, Aminata Toure, Macky’s, ” Toure
Organizations:
Reuters, Senegalese, Reuters . African, Economic, West African States, Sunday
Locations:
Senegal, West, Dakar