… In one of the biggest protests march under new Senegalese Govt.
The FDR succeeds in its gamble and brings tens of thousands of Senegalese into the streets
The Senegalese capital throbbed with the rhythm of a nationwide mobilization this Friday,when the majority of the opposition, united within the Front for the Defense of Democracy (FDR), succeeded in staging an impressive show of force. Thousands and thousands of citizens flooded the streets of Dakar to express their frustration with the high cost of living, what they consider unfair layoffs, the increase in electricity prices (the infamous prepaid electricity’s known as“woyafal”), and above all, to demand the release of political prisoners and people of conscience
From the early hours of the morning, the crowds gathered in an electric atmosphere, chanting slogans for social justice, freedom, and respect for democratic rights. Waving flags and holding placards, the demonstrators denounced the erosion of purchasing power and called for urgent reforms to alleviate the burden on households.
But at the heart of the demands, one political imperative resonated: the resignation of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. For many participants, the head of government “betrayed hopes for change” and “failed to address the country’s economic and social emergencies.”
The march, heavily policed, proceeded peacefully, a sign that the political tension, though palpable, did not spill over onto the streets. The leaders of the FDR, visibly pleased with this record turnout, praised “the maturity of the Senegalese people” and vowed to continue the struggle until the people’s demands are met.
This gathering, which will undoubtedly go down in the annals of citizen mobilizations, serves as a clear political warning: the Senegalese people intend to make their voices heard, whatever the cost.
