Among all African countries, Senegal has consistently stood as a beacon of political light. As one of the only African state to never experience a coup d'etat, Senegal's government has been characterized
by long-term political stability. However, it is possible that all of this is about to change.
Before addressing the current state of affairs in Senegal, let's rewind 50 years to review the political trajectory of the country. As mentioned in my previous post, Senegal gained independence from France on April 4, 1960. For 40 years, the country was controlled by the socialist party, with its first president being Leopold Senghor, who remained in that position until 1981. At this point in time, Abdou Diouf replaced him as president. It was not until 2000, after Diouf had served four consecutive terms, that Abdoulaye Wade, a member of the Senegalese Democratic Party, ended the 40 year socialist reign.
Wade was eagerly welcomed to the presidency and pushed a relatively liberal agenda, supporting an open market and encouraging raising the country's profile, both locally and nationally. As mentioned in my post, "A Brief History," Wade has also encouraged the integration of diaspora members, especially those originally from Senegal who now live abroad. Despite the initial prosperity of the country under his presidency, recent political changes have transformed the once stable republic into chaotic turmoil.
In 2001, during Wade's first term as president, the constitution was amended such that a president in Senegal can only serve up to two terms in office. Despite the implementation of this new rule, Wade is currently running for a third term in office, claiming that because the amendment was not capped until he had already served a term in office, he technically should be granted an additional term. Not surprisingly, the seemingly unconstitutional candidacy of the 85 year old president for a third term has angered many citizens, leading to violent protests and, so far, the death of four citizens. Furthermore, Wade has been criticized for apparently hiring local citizens to show up at his speeches and feign an air of campaign solidarity. I've included some pictures below that capture the current political atmosphere in Senegal.
Additionally, for video footage and commentary on the recent protests, see the video above.
The country previously renowned for its peaceful political environment has transformed into a hotbed for riots, disorder, and general public dissatisfaction. Just several days ago, protestors stoned several cars carrying Wade's convoys. As the February 26th election nears, both the security and stability of the country are quickly dwindling. With 13 candidates running in opposition to Wade, the Senegalese people are hopeful that there will soon be an end to the unrest.
Protest Images:
Sources:
Associated Press, "Senegal's president's convoy stoned on campagin trail." USA Today, February 8, 2012. http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/story/2012-02-08/senegal-presidential-convoy-stoned/53015912/1
Associated Press, "Police fire tear gas at Senegal opposition protest." CBS News, February 15, 2012. http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-501710_162-57378101/senegal-bans-anti-government-demonstration/
Buya Jammeh, "Senegal's Wade intensified campaign amid protests." Africa News, February 15, 2012.
http://www.africanews.com/site/Senegals_Wade_intensifies_campaign_amid_protests/list_messages/41110
Constitution Net. "Constitutional history of Senegal," last modified 2012, http://www.constitutionnet.org/country/constitutional-history-senegal
globalEdge, "Senegal: Government," Michigan State University, last modified 2012, http://globaledge.msu.edu/Countries/Senegal/government
U.S. Department of State, United States Government, last modified January 13, http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2862.htm
