The National Assembly opted to reschedule the referendum for December 15 and to prolong Macky Sall’s tenure, which was supposed to end on April 2nd.
The verdict said that the law passed by the national parliament was “contrary to the constitution”. The ruling thrilled opposition candidates who had filed a lawsuit with the council.
However, the opposition was unable to ensure that the presidential election take place as planned.
The constitutional council’s six-member panel concluded that organising the election on February 25th was unfeasible.
Nonetheless, the justices directed the competent authorities to reschedule the poll as quickly as feasible. This was received with a mixed response.
It is vital to note that the Constitutional Council’s decision occurred hours after the release of those individuals widely regarded as political prisoners.
Among them are members of citizen movements and followers of the now-defunct Pastef party, led by Ousmane Sonko.
The president is apparently negotiating with Sonko for an early release to alleviate Senegal’s current tensions.
Macky Sall promised on Friday (Feb. 16) to hold presidential elections “as soon as possible” after the Constitutional Council overturned his decision to postpone the poll on February 25.
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