Senegal: Bola Tinubu in Dakar for talks with Macky Sall

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu is expected in Dakar on Monday for discussions with his counterpart Macky Sall, aiming to address the crisis that has gripped Senegal since the announcement of the postponement of the presidential election.

According to the Nigerian Newspaper Western Post, the purpose of this visit is to urge President Sall to adhere to the electoral schedule, as stated in a statement by ECOWAS.

The report suggests that the Nigerian leader «is expected to exert pressure on President Sall to respect the constitution of the country and avoid plunging Senegal into a lasting crisis».

In what is described as a commando mission within ECOWAS, Bola Tinubu may use his influence to persuade his Senegalese counterpart.

Since the announcement of the postponement of the presidential election, Senegal has witnessed protests, and these violent demonstrations have resulted in three deaths to date.

Macky Sall, on his part, continues to defend his decision to postpone the presidential election.

In his first interview since the announcement of the postponement, Sall dismissed allegations that the decision was unconstitutional, stating that the country needed more time to resolve controversies over the disqualification of some candidates and a power conflict between the legislative and executive branches.

However, a significant portion of public opinion fears that Sall, whose mandate is limited, is merely seeking to delay his departure from office.

This concerning situation has become a thorny issue for ECOWAS, which must take appropriate measures in the interest of the Senegalese people.

Otherwise, it could be another failure for the sub-regional community, already facing strong criticism.

Olivier TOE