22 Nov 2017 | 11:45 AM UTC
Senegal: Protests possible in Dakar November 22
National Assembly expected to lift the parliamentary immunity of Khalifa Sall on November 22; protests likely
Event
The National Assembly is expected to lift the immunity of Khalifa Sall - a parliamentarian and the mayor of the capital Dakar - on Wednesday, November 22. Sall, accused of embezzling state funds, has been in prison since March but was, nevertheless, elected to the parliament in July. Protests by Sall’s supporters are likely in the capital on November 22 to demand his release; an increased security presence should be expected.
Context
Sall is the leader of the opposition coalition Manko Taxawu Senegal (MTS), which has previously held protests in the capital to demand his release so he can take his seat in parliament.
The ruling Benno Bokk Yaakaar party won 125 of 165 seats in parliament in July’s elections, which is expected to bolster support for President Macky Sall (no relation) in his likely bid for reelection in 2019. However, July’s elections were met with widespread accusations of government-sponsored voter fraud and suppression; some opposition parties have called for boycotts of all future elections.
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 due to the risk of violence.
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.
