In Dakar, the civil society collective against the postponement of the presidential election of February 25, 2024, has announced the delay of their “silent march” due to a ban imposed by Dakar officials. The ban cited concerns about potential disruptions to the movement of people and goods. Education unions have also intensified pressure on the government with a series of planned demonstrations, including walkouts and class stoppages across different establishments in the country, reflecting the escalating crisis in Senegal.
The unions have issued a statement calling for a walkout, a General Assembly, and a silent march in Dakar. They have urged all teachers to strictly adhere to the action plans and participate in the silent march scheduled to take place on Tuesday, February 13, 2024.
The unions collectively involved in this action include CUSEMS, CUSEMS/A, SAEMSS, SEPT, SEPPI, SUDES, CDEFS, SADEF, ODES, and UES. In the Thiès region, particularly in the town of Mbour, the strike slogan has reportedly gained widespread traction as per Radio Futurs Médias.
Under the mounting pressure from unions, the opposition, and civil society, the Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications, and Digital Affairs has announced a partial suspension of mobile internet.
Concurrently, President Macky Sall has instructed the Minister of Justice to prepare a general amnesty bill, with the aim of releasing Ousmane Sonko and others who were arrested during the recent demonstrations. The bill is expected to be presented and adopted during the Council of Ministers on February 14, before being submitted to the National Assembly for endorsement.
President Sall’s proposed amnesty measure also encompasses older cases, including those involving the convictions of Karim Wade and Khalifa Sall. This act is an initial step towards inclusive and constructive dialogue, aligned with his vision of ensuring a peaceful and stable Senegal through a national dialogue. The President has emphasized the need for this amnesty law to be adopted by Parliament, signaling the commencement of a collaborative and comprehensive dialogue. Furthermore, he has expressed the intention to restore the signal of the private television channel Walfadjri as part of this broader approach.
