Presidential candidates in Senegal have officially begun their election campaigns after weeks of violent protests in the country. The election was delayed by President Macky Sall, leading to chaos and opposition demonstrations. The Constitutional Council rejected the delay and ordered a new election date, now set for March 24.
With a shorter campaign period, concerns have been raised about candidates with more financial resources having an advantage. The upcoming election, taking place during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, is expected to be tightly contested, with no clear favorite. Front-runners include former Prime Minister Amadou Ba and imprisoned candidate Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
Faye, who is set to be released in time for the election, has gained popularity as the chief of the dissolved PASTEF party, stepping in for imprisoned opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. Other prominent candidates include former mayor of Dakar, Khalifa Sall, and former prime minister, Idrissa Seck. The only woman candidate is Anta Babacar Ngom.
Senegal, once seen as a beacon of democratic stability in West Africa, is now facing uncertainty as the election approaches. The outcome of this election is crucial for the country’s political future, and the world will be closely watching the developments in Senegal.
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