Senegal’s internet service was restored on Wednesday after two days of curfew-style restrictions imposed by the government. The restrictions came following civil unrest over the postponement of the presidential elections originally scheduled for this month. The global community has voiced concerns over what some Senegalese are labeling a “constitutional coup.”
These internet restrictions severely hampered Senegalese citizens’ ability to participate in street protests. With internet access absent, many faced difficulties in utilizing social media platforms to share updates and coordinate demonstrations. The blackout also hindered journalism, thus curtailing transparency and accountability. Notably, the leading television news service, Walf, had its broadcasting license revoked subsequent to its coverage of the widespread protests.
Naro Omo-Osagie, representing the African Policy and Advocacy at Access Now expressed: “Millions of people in Senegal have been deliberately disconnected from the rest of the world. In times of heightened political tension, access to the internet is critical and must be upheld at all times to keep people safe and connected with their families and communities.”
In response to the restrictions, citizens turned in large numbers towards virtual private networks or VPN services, marking an increase of 350 percent. Additionally, the economic impact of such internet shutdowns was underscored by a 2023 shutdown in Senegal, which resulted in an estimated loss of $42.3 million, impacting approximately 8 million people.
Long considered a stable democracy since independence from France in 1960, Senegal is witnessing significant civil unrest as evidenced by violent protests in the capital, Dakar, and across the countryside. Three opposition members of the parliament were arrested, further inflaming the situation. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and various international actors have called for a return to the electoral calendar and expressed concern over growing instability in the region. The full article can be accessed here.