"Senegal's Democracy Crisis: Protests Erupt as President Defends Election Delay"

Senegalese President Macky Sall defends his decision to postpone elections, citing controversies over disqualified candidates and conflicts between branches of government, while facing violent protests nationwide. Critics fear Sall, facing term limits, is seeking to delay leaving office, as tensions escalate over who is allowed to run. The postponement has led to accusations of anti-democratic practices, declining faith in democracy, and repression of media, civil society, and the opposition. Sall calls for international understanding and plans to launch a national dialogue, but experts warn that releasing opposition candidates from jail, ending Sall's tenure on time, and annulling the decree are crucial to avoiding further violence and chaos.