Senegal : Is the postponement of the presidential election a strategy by Macky Sall to facilitate a takeover by pro-French military ?

Senegalese President Macky Sall announced during a national address on Saturday, February 3, 2024, the indefinite postponement of the presidential election originally scheduled for February 25. This decision comes just hours before the official start of the presidential campaign.

In the night of Monday, February 5, to Tuesday, February 6, 2024, the National Assembly adopted, without debate, the bill regarding the postponement of the presidential election.

According to many observers, this move by Macky Sall aims to allow the population to express themselves in the streets and for certain Senegalese military circles close to French authorities to potentially seize power.

These events recall the scenario that took place in Gabon with the accession to power of President Brice Olingui Nguema, and there appears to be a similarity with the ongoing events in Senegal.

Information from various sources suggests that France may seek to install military elements favorable to its interests in power, to the detriment of Senegal’s national aspirations and interests.

It is imperative that the Senegalese people be aware of the potential risks of a coup orchestrated by pro-French forces, as Macky Sall seems to be losing his ability to serve French interests in the country. The mobilization and vigilance of the population are crucial to oppose any attempt to seize power by military elements aligned with foreign interests.

Aminata Diop