The Senegalese civil society has expressed strong support for the constitutional reform process, provided it is conducted through a referendum free from political maneuvering. This stance was clearly articulated by the influential movement Y’en a marre, which has been actively engaged in civic issues for over a decade.
Civil society calls for transparent constitutional reform
The movement’s position comes in the wake of the National Assembly’s approval of the constitutional reform bill on June 29, spearheaded by legislators from the Pastef party. Y’en a marre emphasized the necessity of a referendum to ensure public participation in the decision-making process, aligning with the commitment made by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
The collective has raised concerns about the resurgence of political tactics reminiscent of past administrations, including the alleged use of divisive rhetoric to undermine critical voices. Aliou Sané, the movement’s founder, acknowledged the importance of the reform while urging caution against any attempt to exploit the process for short-term political gains.
“The referendum announcement must not serve as a delaying tactic to obstruct the Pastef’s initiatives. We advocate for these reforms, but it is crucial for citizens to fully grasp the implications and have the opportunity to decide,” Sané stated.
Allegations of political instrumentalization and backlash
Y’en a marre also condemned the reappearance of tactics used during the presidencies of Abdoulaye Wade and Macky Sall, including the baseless accusation that the movement is backed by an “LGBT lobby.” These claims have been widely discredited, with the movement pointing out the inconsistency of such allegations, given that many of its critics previously stood alongside them in opposition to similar accusations.
The movement further criticized the arrests of twelve individuals, including nine young activists from the opposition party Alternative pour la Relève Citoyenne (ARC), near the National Assembly on June 29. The detainees, held on charges of “disrupting public order” and “participating in an unauthorized protest,” were released later the same day.
This incident has heightened concerns about the political climate in Senegal, with civil society groups warning against the erosion of democratic values and the return of repressive measures.
