Senegal’s Critical Juncture

As the situation in Senegal unfolds, the country finds itself at a critical juncture. The manner in which the government addresses these protests and the underlying issues will determine Senegal’s political trajectory for the foreseeable future.

Written by Kosi Ogbuli

Jun 6, 2023

Senegal’s Critical Juncture. THE REPUBLIC

The arrest of popular opposition leader Ousmane Sonko in early June 2023 marked the ignition point for widespread protests gripping Senegal. Representing the Patriotes Africanis du Sénégal pour le travail, L’éthique et la Fraternité (PASTEF) party, Sonko was apprehended on charges of ‘corrupting youth’, disrupting public order and resisting arrest during a court appearance related to rape accusations. His supporters have vehemently contested these allegations, deeming them politically motivated.

However, Sonko’s arrest merely catalyses a much larger wave of discontent sweeping Senegal. Economic struggles intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, an endemic youth unemployment crisis, and perceptions of entrenched government corruption constitute the combustible material that has fuelled these demonstrations.

Sonko, a figure who has consistently challenged the status quo, represents a symbol of change for many Senegalese citizens. The PASTEF leader ran for president in the 2019 election, coming in third place with 16 per cent. Running on an anti-CFA Franc platform, he advocated for a ‘responsible and intelligent’ exit from the CFA franc—the West African single currency that some consider a colonial relic. However, in a series of actions that were decidedly underhanded, Sonko found himself under constant attack. Faceless individuals repeatedly employed false documents and made unsubstantiated claims about him. As such, his recent sentencing is perceived not only as an assault on an individual but also as an attack on the possibility of a fresh political dawn.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT

This is not the first time Sonko has faced such charges. In 2021, he was accused of rape, leading to widespread demonstrations in his support. Sonko has consistently maintained that these charges are part of a broader political conspiracy designed to curb his political ascendancy.

The current protests go beyond Sonko’s legal troubles and expose a broader disquiet with the government of President Macky Sall. Over the years, Sall’s administration has increasingly been viewed as authoritarian. Judicial independence has been called into question, freedom of speech has been curtailed, and allegations of nepotism have run rife. Against this backdrop, there is a rising apprehension that Sall might manipulate the constitution to circumvent the two-term presidential limit, thereby prolonging his rule. It is important to note that Sall has been unclear about his intention in seeking another term in office. The sentencing of Sonko, judged in absentia, only raises doubts regarding Sall’s intentions.

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About the Author

Kosi Ogbuli

is an Associate Editor at The Republic.

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Senegal’s Critical Juncture

HISTORICAL CONTEXT