The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has urged all stakeholders in the electoral process in Senegal to comply with the decision of the Constitutional Council and called on the competent authorities to set a date for the presidential election in accordance with the decision.
ECOWAS in a Communique on Friday, February 16, 2024, said, it took note of the decision taken by the Constitutional Council of Senegal on 15 February 2024, relating to the postponement of the presidential election in Senegal.
It, therefore, called on the political class and all stakeholders to show restraint and give priority to inclusive dialogue to preserve the democratic gains of this model ECOWAS Member State.
It said, it would continue to monitor the situation and invited all stakeholders to respect the rule of law to ensure a free, inclusive, and transparent election.
Recall that Senegal’s top election authority on Thursday voided the government’s postponement of a presidential election scheduled for February 25 and its rescheduling for December, ruling that the moves were unconstitutional.
The constitutional council cancelled the decree signed by President Macky Sall earlier this month that postponed the election, according to a judgement approved by seven members of the body.
The National Assembly’s decision on February 5 to reschedule the vote for December 15 also was “contrary to the constitution,” the judgement said.
“The constitutional council, noting the impossibility of organising the presidential election on the date initially planned, invites the competent authorities to hold it as soon as possible,” it added.
The constitutional council also reiterated the fixed nature of the five-year presidential term.
