Senegal’s President Macky Sall surprised the nation on Monday by announcing that he would not seek a third term in office. The decision comes after widespread domestic and international opposition, including violent protests that resulted in the deadliest clashes in Senegal’s recent history. Sall, who has been in power since 2012, stated that he made the choice to prioritize the country’s future and had deep respect for the Senegalese people.
This announcement is seen as a positive precedent for democracy in the West African region. Alioune Tine, a human rights expert, compared Sall’s decision to “deactivating a bomb,” emphasizing the importance of leaders stepping down to ensure a peaceful transition of power. Tine described Sall’s choice as an extremely positive development given the current state of democratic norms in the region.
Sall’s decision is particularly noteworthy as several countries in the region are facing threats to democratic principles. Military juntas that seized power through coups are currently ruling in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. Additionally, presidents in the Ivory Coast and Togo are serving beyond their constitutionally mandated two terms. The Ivory Coast’s president claimed a “reset,” while Togo’s legislature changed its law to allow the president to continue in office.
Catherine Lena Kelly, an expert on Senegalese politics, commended Sall’s commitment to respecting the constitution. She acknowledged the country’s history of leaders attempting to cling to power and highlighted the importance of further reforms to ensure a fair electoral process and treatment of journalists and opposition figures.
Nevertheless, concerns remain about the independence of the judiciary in Senegal. During Sall’s presidency, three of his political opponents faced convictions. Most recently, opposition figure Ousmane Sonko was convicted on charges of “corrupting youth” and barred from running in the upcoming February election. Sonko’s supporters argue that the conviction was politically motivated, leading to protests in which at least 16 people died. Amnesty International reported a higher death toll of at least 23, including three children, and accused the police or unidentified armed men of using live ammunition on protesters. President Sall pledged to hold those responsible for instigating the protests accountable.
The detainment of Ousmane Sonko, who gained significant support among Senegal’s youth, raises concerns about political repression. Sonko has been under house arrest since the June 1 verdict, but formal charges have not been filed as of Monday evening.
Overall, President Sall’s decision not to seek a third term is seen as a step towards strengthening democracy in Senegal. However, challenges regarding judicial independence and political freedom persist, highlighting the need for further reforms to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.