Senegal: Breaking the Election Deadlock

The Constitutional Council's decision to overturn the postponement of presidential polls could provide a way out of the crisis.Sall's decision on 3 February to postpone the polls scheduled for 25 February had been backed by legislation passed two days later. That legislation declared 15 December as the new election date - effectively extending Sall's presidency by nearly a year.

The 5 February law that granted the postponement was voted in by the ruling Benno Bokk Yakaar coalition and the Senegalese Democratic Party , whose alliance in the National Assembly gave them the 60% threshold needed to pass the law. But the process was chaotic, with opposition deputies forcibly removed from the chamber by security forces, and no debate occurred.

Many suspect the president's decision was out of fear of an impending defeat of his BBY coalition candidate The council's decision yesterday to invalidate the law postponing the election could ease tensions in Senegal. It aligns with the positions of political players, civil society organisations and trade unions, as well as regional, continental and international stakeholders.

South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Senegal President Macky Sall Repeals Election Decree and Calls for National DialogueThe president of Senegal, Macky Sall, announced the repeal of the decree setting the election for February 25th and called for a national dialogue. The presidential election will be postponed to a later date.
Source: TheAfricaReport - 🏆 29. / 55 Read more »

Senegal cuts internet again amid widening crackdown on dissent - SABC News - Breaking news, special reports,Senegal cut mobile internet access on Tuesday
Source: SABCNews - 🏆 37. / 51 Read more »

Senegal Constitutional Council Rejects Postponement of ElectionThe court described the postponement of the February 25 election as unconstitutional. A new date is expected to be set in accordance with the Constitution which requires President Macky Sall to step down by the April 2 when his mandate ends.
Source: allafrica - 🏆 1. / 99 Read more »

Senegal election: President Macky Sall vows poll 'as soon as possible'The U-turn comes after Senegal's top court ruled attempts to delay February's poll 'unconstitutional'.
Source: BBCAfrica - 🏆 23. / 61 Read more »

Senegal election: What next after block on President Macky Sall's bid to delay poll?A court blocks the president's plan to delay elections, but this doesn't mean the political crisis is over.
Source: BBCAfrica - 🏆 23. / 61 Read more »

Senegal election: Opposition supporters march in Dakar calling for swift voteProtesters say the vote must go ahead after President Macky Sall's bid to delay it was overturned in court.
Source: BBCAfrica - 🏆 23. / 61 Read more »