Senegal: Protests possible nationwide through late July over the passage of controversial law /update 1

Event

Demonstrations are possible nationwide through at least late July in response to a controversial amendment to the Electoral Law as a special session at the National Assembly is scheduled July 12 to discuss amendments to the draft law. Opposition groups have reportedly vowed to stand against the amendments, two of which are perceived as a way to de facto exclude anyone with a suspended or non-suspended sentence of more than one month from any electoral competition. The Mouvement pour la Defense de la Democratie (M2D) has reportedly called upon supporters to get ready to launch a related protest movement in the coming days, although the exact dates and locations remain undisclosed.

Protests could materialize in the capital Dakar, notably at Place de l'Obelisque (also known as Place de la Nation), but also at Place Soweto near the National Assembly building. Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture until it becomes clear that no further demonstrations are imminent. Localized transport disruptions are likely near any such gatherings that may take place; additional violence cannot be ruled out.

Context

Recently, Senegal has witnessed an increase in opposition demonstrations in relation to controversial laws enacted by the government.

Senegal's parliamentary opposition, as well as civil activist groups such as M2D and Y'en a Marre, strongly opposed Bill No. 10/2021, which makes certain amendments to the nation's Criminal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure. While the government asserted that the legislation will only be used in Senegal's fight against terrorism, detractors have pointed to its civil liberties implications, terming it a "freedom-killer" and arguing that President Macky Sall will use it to eliminate any dissent or opposition to his administration. The bill passed into law on June 25 with 70 votes in favor and 11 against amid heated debate. On June 25, a related rally at Place de l'Obelisque by the Y'en a Marre movement to protest the new legislation escalated into clashes with police when officers moved to disperse the gathering and arrested several of the group's leaders and members.

More recently, the government has engaged in drafting Bill No. 18/2021 which makes certain amendments to the nation's Criminal Code. The amendments were adopted by the Minister Council July 5; however parliamentary opposition groups have pointed to five issues, for which there is no consensus, including the revision of articles that deprive convicted persons of their civil and political rights. This is the case of former Dakar mayor and the son of former president Abdoulaye Wade. The electoral law must come into force before July 23, six months before the municipal and departmental elections.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Exercise caution in the affected areas due to the potential for further clashes. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions if operating in the areas. Heed all official traffic and security advisories.