Since 2021, the streets of Senegal have witnessed an unprecedented uprising, driven by mass mobilization unseen in the country’s post-independence political history. This grassroots movement has steered the trajectory of the crisis, underscoring the potency of people power.

The traditional left in Senegal, renowned for its steadfast resistance against the neo-colonial regime, finds itself sidelined by this new movement, partly due to its recent history of political alliances with reactionary forces that repeatedly betrayed the aspirations of the masses. Movements like An.jeff, LDMPT, PIT, etc. once commanded significant support among ordinary people but have succumbed to internal contradictions, rendering them ineffective in the current political climate.

INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL FORCES

At the core of the mass movement lies the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (Pastef), which has not only exposed the flaws of neo-colonial bourgeois democracy in Senegal but also highlighted the neo-colonial character of the Senegalese state. Despite distancing itself from socialism, Pastef advocates for Pan-African solidarity and denounces France’s historical economic exploitation of its African colonies. Its potential rise to power poses a significant threat to French imperialism in the continent.

The violent suppression of pro-democracy protests by the Rapid Action Surveillance and Intervention Forces (CARSI), funded and equipped by the EU, raises concerns about external interference in Senegal’s internal affairs. The Senegalese President Macky Sall’s alignment with France complicates matters. Senegal is one of the biggest trading and investment partners of France in the continent and has served as the most reliable defender of French imperialist interests, not only in Senegal but in the continent.

The Road Ahead

President Sall’s attempts to manipulate elections and suppress dissent have been met with strong resistance. Despite facing setbacks, including the recent release of Pastef leader Ousman Sonko, the upcoming presidential elections remain fraught with uncertainty.

While there is hope that this new mass movement will bring about positive change, past experiences of betrayal by political elites caution against blind optimism., highlighting the need for vigilance and unity among the masses.

Ultimately, the demand for free, transparent, and fair elections remains paramount for the stability and progress of Senegal. As the country navigates through this tumultuous period, solidarity and perseverance are crucial in shaping its future.

The opposition to the declaration of Amnesty during the resistance period was strong, as it aimed to absolve individuals of any responsibility, even for criminal acts. Despite this opposition, the majority in parliament, who were members of Sall’s ruling coalition government, passed the Amnesty. However, recent constitutional rulings against election postponement and resistance to holding election after Sall’s mandate ended represent significant setbacks, leading the government to announce March 24th as election day.