𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐥: 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐫

𝗕𝘆 𝗔𝗹𝗽𝗵𝗮 𝗝𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗶𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗿, 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹

The Front for the Defence of Democracy (FDR) staged one of the largest protest marches in Senegal since the new government took office, drawing tens of thousands of people into the streets of Dakar on Friday.

The capital city pulsated with chants, drums, and defiant slogans as the FDR, a coalition of opposition parties and civil society groups, demonstrated its ability to mobilize nationwide. Protesters voiced their anger over the rising cost of living, mass layoffs they deem unjust, soaring electricity prices linked to the controversial prepaid system known as “woyafal”, and the continued detention of political prisoners.

From early morning, crowds gathered in a charged yet orderly atmosphere, waving Senegalese flags and brandishing placards demanding social justice, economic relief, and respect for democratic rights.

At the core of the protest, however, was a bold political message: the resignation of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. Many demonstrators accused the head of government of “betraying the hopes for change” and “failing to deliver on economic and social promises.”

Despite heavy police presence, the march remained peaceful, reflecting both the discipline of the organizers and the simmering tension within the country’s political climate.

Leaders of the FDR hailed the unprecedented turnout as “a triumph of democratic expression” and praised the “maturity and determination of the Senegalese people.” They vowed to sustain the movement until the government responds to the citizens’ demands.

Friday’s mass rally marks a defining moment in Senegal’s political landscape, a reminder that, despite recent transitions, the call for accountability and social justice remains as powerful as ever.