ECOWAS Expresses Concern over Postponed Presidential Election in Senegal

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a statement expressing concern over the decision by the Senegalese authorities to indefinitely postpone the presidential election, which was scheduled to take place on the 25th of February, 2024.

President Macky Sall's announcement of the postponement has sparked international concern, as it came just a day before the official campaigning was set to begin. President Sall cited a dispute between the National Assembly and the Constitutional Court over the rejection of candidates as the reason for the delay.

The integrity of two judges of the Constitutional Council, who are responsible for overseeing the election process, has been called into question, leading lawmakers to open an investigation. In a statement, President Sall said, "I will begin an open national dialogue to bring together the conditions for a free, transparent, and inclusive election," but did not provide a new date for the election.

In response, the ECOWAS body has called on the competent authorities to expedite the necessary processes and determine a new date for the presidential election. The regional body also urged the entire political class to prioritize dialogue and collaboration to ensure a transparent and credible election.

Despite the concerns over the postponement, ECOWAS commended President Sall for his decision not to seek another term and praised his commitment to upholding Senegal's longstanding democratic tradition. The commission encouraged President Sall to continue defending and protecting the country's democratic values.

The decision to postpone the election has raised questions about the future political landscape in Senegal and the potential impact on stability in the region. ECOWAS has emphasized the importance of conducting a peaceful and fair election process to maintain stability and democratic principles in Senegal.

As the Senegalese authorities work towards setting a new date for the presidential election, the international community, including ECOWAS, will closely monitor the developments to ensure a transparent and credible electoral process.