The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission issued a strong statement on Tuesday, expressing concern about the recent developments in Senegal regarding the upcoming presidential election.
The regional body urged the political class to uphold the country’s constitution and ensure the elections proceed according to the established calendar.
The statement highlighted the Commission’s unease surrounding the unfolding events, particularly actions that might violate the constitution and jeopardize peace and stability. They reminded all parties involved, including the political class and the Senegalese people, of their shared responsibility to maintain calm and order.
“The ECOWAS Commission encourages the political class to take immediate steps to reinstate the electoral calendar in line with the provisions of Senegal’s Constitution,” the statement emphasized. It further appealed to all stakeholders to reject violence and actions that could escalate tensions and disrupt national tranquility.
Moreover, the Commission urged law enforcement agencies to act with the utmost restraint and safeguard the fundamental rights of all citizens. They pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely and offer necessary support to the Senegalese government and people in their efforts to uphold their democratic traditions.
This statement comes in response to the controversial decision by Senegal’s parliament to postpone the presidential election from February 25th to December 15th.
The decision, coupled with the forceful removal of opposition lawmakers during the parliamentary debate, sparked protests and raised concerns about a potential violation of the constitution.
