Student killed in Senegal as protests against election delay gain momentum
A Senegalese demonstrator gestures as other are filming during clashes with riot police as they protest against the postponement of the Feb. 25 presidential election, in Dakar, Senegal February 9, 2024. REUTERS/Zohra Bensemra
Senegalese security forces dispersed protesters with tear gas on Friday as anger continues to rise over the postponement of a presidential election.
First casualty was reported after a student was killed in the northern town of Saint-Louis, relatives of the victim confirmed.
The death was also reported by Khalifa Sall, an opposition candidate, who earlier called the election delay a “constitutional coup.”
The Senegalese authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the unfortunate incident.
Police fired tear gas to prevent demonstrators from reaching central Dakar, where a protest had been planned.
Hundreds of demonstrators pelted police with stones and set fire to tires. Anger has escalated since President Macky Sall postponed a presidential election set for February 25 to December.
The president argued that the postponement, which gave him a 10-months mandate extension -was needed to resolve a dispute over the eligibility of presidential candidates.
Despite his pledge not to run for another term, opposition parties have accused the incumbent president of trying to cling to power by force.
International community including West Africa’s regional body Ecowas urged Senegal’s political class on Tuesday to “take steps urgently to restore the electoral calendar” in accordance with the constitution.
