Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-02-29 09:16:00
Senegalese opposition leaders have adamantly rejected a proposed postponement of the nation’s elections until June 2, along with a suggestion that President Macky Sall’s term be extended until a successor is appointed. The proposal was put forward by a coalition of political, religious, and civil society leaders after two days of negotiations, which aimed to ease tensions following Sall’s decision to delay the vote from its original date of February 25. Sixteen of the 19 opposition candidates on the ballot refused to participate in the talks, citing concerns about the constitutionality of pushing the election beyond April 2 when Sall’s term officially ends.
Thierno Alassane Sall, a former minister and presidential candidate, emphasized the importance of upholding the constitution in a statement following the negotiations. He stressed that any agreement reached through dialogue cannot override the law, and holding the presidential election after April 2 would violate the constitutional provisions. The unresolved debate over the election date has created uncertainty and instability in Senegal, as Sall’s continued stay in office beyond his mandated term could potentially trigger further unrest and protests.
Former Prime Minister Aminata Touré, a prominent opposition figure who was once an ally of Sall, expressed concerns about the potential for institutional crisis if the proposed June 2 election date is adopted. She called on the Constitutional Council to remind the president of the legal requirement to hold the elections before his term expires, rather than allowing for an extension that could lead to a period of uncertainty and conflict within the government.
While President Sall has yet to publicly respond to the proposal for a June 2 election date, a spokesperson from the presidency indicated that he would consult with the government on the matter. However, political analysts, such as Babacar Ndiaye from the West Africa think tank Wathi, have pointed out that the Constitutional Council has made it clear that Sall’s term must end on April 2, and any attempt to extend it would contradict the law.
Senegal’s constitution dictates that in the event of a presidential vacancy, the office passes to the parliamentary speaker, and new elections must be held within 90 days. The laws also stipulate a three-week campaign period and require that elections take place at least one month before the incumbent president’s term concludes. The implications of disregarding these legal provisions could result in a constitutional crisis and a challenge to the country’s democratic institutions.
As the debate over the election date continues, Senegal remains in a state of uncertainty, with the opposition standing firm on upholding the rule of law and ensuring a peaceful transition of power in accordance with the constitution. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future political landscape of the nation and the adherence to democratic principles in the face of political challenges and legal constraints.
Read the original article on The Standard
