Citizens of Senegal calling on their government to respect the country’s constitutional timeline for presidential election must be taken seriously by the country’s authorities.

Development Diaries reports that Senegalese have demonstrated in the streets against the proposed extension of President Macky Sall’s term beyond 02 April, which is the constitutionally mandated date for the handover of power.

With banners and flags bearing slogans like ‘election by force’ and ‘Terminus April 2nd’, protesters made it clear that they would not stand for any attempt to extend Sall’s term as president.

The citizens of Senegal seem to take great pride in being among the most stable democracies in West Africa; however, with recent developments, many are furious that this reputation is now in jeopardy.

This is why they have chosen to lend their voices to ensure that democracy is not truncated in the country. It must be stated that President Sall’s decision to postpone Senegal’s elections threatens the country’s democratic identity.

The action of the Senegalese demonstrates ideal citizen participation in governance, demonstrating that power ultimately resides with the people and that their voices matter in shaping the future direction of their country.

In many African countries, there is a history of disenfranchisement and marginalisation, where the voices of ordinary people have often been ignored or suppressed.

The government of Senegal can change this narrative and bridge this gap by demonstrating its commitment to democracy and good governance.

It is important for President Sall to listen to the concerns of his people, as this is paramount for the effective running of democracy in the country.

Development Diaries calls on President Sall to adhere to the will of the people of Senegal by upholding the country’s constitutional principles and showing commitment to democratic norms and the rule of law.

Photo source: AP/Sylvain Cherkaoui