Senegal teeters on the edge following the unexpected delay of elections

Senegal's reputation as a stronghold of democracy in an unstable region is under threat as protesters clash with police outside the National Assembly. Inside, lawmakers have approved a controversial bill to extend President Macky Sall's term and postpone elections. Opposition figures Khalifa Sall and Thierno Alassane Sall have criticized the delay, with the former calling it a "constitutional coup." The ruling coalition has a slight majority in parliament and was able to pass the bill despite a heated atmosphere and opposition MPs trying to block proceedings. The delay has sparked protests across the capital, Dakar, and has raised concerns about Senegal's democratic credentials and potential constitutional crisis. Tensions have been rising for over two years, with the opposition accusing the government of using the legal system to exclude them from the election. Authorities have restricted mobile internet services to prevent the spread of "hateful and subversive messages," further aggravating the situation. Concerns about civil liberties and political instability have been raised, and international bodies such as Ecowas, the African Union, France, the US, and the EU have called for dialogue and an election to be held as soon as possible. However, there is skepticism about the efficacy of external pressure since President Sall's international image may limit its impact. Overall, Senegal faces a critical test of its electoral integrity and judicial independence.