Postponement of Election in Senegal (Press Statement)

« The United States is deeply concerned by actions taken to delay Senegal’s February 25 presidential election, which run contrary to Senegal’s strong democratic tradition.  We are particularly alarmed by reports of security forces removing by force parliamentarians who opposed a bill to delay the election, resulting in a National Assembly vote that cannot be considered legitimate given the conditions under which it took place.  

The United States urges the Government of Senegal to move forward with its presidential election in accordance with the Constitution and electoral laws.  We also call on the Senegalese government to restore full Internet access immediately and to ensure that freedoms of peaceful assembly and expression, including for members of the press, are fully respected.  The United States will remain engaged with all parties and regional partners in the days ahead. » 

Matthew Miller [Spokeman of State Department)