ECOWAS to Senegal government: Comply with constitutional council directive on election

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has asked stakeholders involved in the Senegal election process to comply with the decision of the constitutional council.

The constitutional council, a body that screens candidates for the position of the president, had earlier overruled the postponement of the February 25 election by Macky Sall, Senegal’s president.

The council declared the election postponement “illegal” and called on stakeholders to announce a new date as soon as possible.

A fortnight ago, Sall postponed the election due to a “problem with the candidates list” and an alleged corruption case against two members of the constitutional council.

Members of Senegal’s parliament had later extended the election date to December 15 — which was also denounced by the council.

The election delay extended Sall’s tenure which should end in April.

ECOWAS had earlier asked Senegal to “expedite the various processes” and fix a new date for its presidential election”.

The commission had also said it was following the events in Senegal closely.

In a statement on Friday, ECOWAS called on the political class in Senegal to embrace “inclusive dialogue”.

“The Commission of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) takes 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,” the statement reads.

“The commission urges all stakeholders in the electoral process to comply with the decision of the constitutional council and calls on the competent authorities to set a date for the presidential election in accordance with the decision.

“The commission calls 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.

“The ECOWAS commission continues to monitor the situation and invites all stakeholders to respect the rule of law to ensure a free, inclusive and transparent election.”