Senegal: Political demonstration planned in Dakar July 25

Event

The United States Embassy in Dakar warned that a political demonstration is planned in the city for Tuesday, July 25. According to the embassy, the march is set to begin at 14:00 (local time) at the Place de L’Independence and end at the Ministry of Interior building. Although organizers of the demonstration, which was called for by former President Abdoulaye Wade, have stated the march will be non-violent, clashes between participants and security forces cannot be ruled out. Expect localized traffic disruptions and increased security measures along the march route.

Senegal is set to hold legislative elections on Sunday, July 30, to fill the seats of 150 deputies in parliament. Additional political demonstrations should be expected in the coming days, and an increased police presence and transportation disruptions are likely during this period leading up to and following the vote.

Context

Current President Macky Sall, of the Alliance for the Republic political party, has experienced wavering popularity amid complaints he has not done enough to improve the lives of Senegalese citizens. Former President Abdoulaye Wade returned to the country on July 10 to lead the Senegalese Democratic Party into the legislative elections. Wade lost to Sall in the 2012 general election runoff and subsequently left the country. Currently, Wade is heading a coalition of opposition parties that are working together to obtain a majority in parliament.

Advice

Individuals in Dakar and across the country are advised to remain vigilant, monitor the situation via local media, and avoid any form of public demonstration or public gathering as a precaution.

On a more general note, despite Senegal's status as a relatively safe country, the presence of terrorist groups in the Saharan region and Senegal's participation in military operations against these groups have increased the underlying terrorist risk in the country. All those present in Dakar are advised to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious objects or behavior. Abide by all instructions issued by the authorities and carry the proper visa or other identifying documentation at all times in case of a security check. Furthermore, certain Western governments advise against nonessential travel to the Casamance region (with the exception of zones around Oussouye and Cap Skirring, considered secure) and along the Malian and Mauritanian borders due to security concerns.