Senegal: ECOWAS Parliament Mediation Mission Calls for Calm After Election Delay
By Omonu YG Nelson
Following a parliamentary diplomacy mission to Senegal, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has urged all political actors in the country to prioritise peace and engage in dialogue ahead of the rescheduled presidential election.
The delegation, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, visited Senegal on February 12 and 13 to assess the pre-electoral political situation after the February 25th election was postponed. The delay has reportedly sparked tensions and fears of instability.
The mission highlighted the “tensions which could lead to a deadlock and jeopardise the tradition of peace and stability” in Senegal.
Call for calm and dialogue: The Parliament urged all parties to “avoid using any form of discourse that could lead to violence or create tension.”
The stakeholders were encouraged to prioritize “peace and stability as well as respect for the Constitution, the promotion of democracy, the rule of law and social cohesion.”
The mission urged “an inclusive and fraternal political dialogue involving all relevant and interested political and social stakeholders” to reach a “consensual solution” for free and fair elections.
The Parliament requested a joint mission by the ECOWAS Commission and Parliament to facilitate the dialogue “as a matter of emergency.”
The statement emphasised Senegal’s history as a stable democracy in West Africa, noting its regular peaceful elections and smooth power transitions. However, the postponement of the 2024 election raises concerns about potential instability.
The ECOWAS Parliament’s intervention aims to de-escalate tensions and encourage dialogue to ensure a peaceful and democratic electoral process in Senegal. Continued international support and cooperation will be crucial for successful elections and maintaining regional stability.