What is Going On In The Democratic Republic of Senegal?

The Republic of Senegal is a country in West Africa who is facing extreme unrest, the worst for at least a decade, evident with daily protests. The protests are a result of growing frustration and anger by citizens, especially because of alleged corrupt actions for political motives. The leading opposition leader of Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, was accused and arrested on a rape charge. However, protestors have flooded the streets to express their support of Mr. Sonko, and stating their beliefs that he was falsely arrested. It is accused that the current President, Macky Sall, and his administration is at fault for Mr. Sonko’s arrest, who orchestrated this in an attempt to depict him as a weak opponent.

Moreover, these protests are a result of growing frustrations for the youth in Senegal as a result of additional issues, such as the government limiting and restricting access to specific social media platforms and tv channels. Also, the country is facing increases in youth unemployment, even among those with college degrees, leading these young individuals with no way to sustain themselves. All of these issues, while already harmful, are only being exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic crisis, especially because of factors such as early curfews.