Opposition says Senegal poll marred by irregularities

By Alpha Kamara

DAKAR, Senegal (AA)- Opposition parties say Sunday's legislative election in Senegal was marred by irregularities and intimidation.

Provisional results released so far put the ruling coalition of President Macky Sall in the lead.

Former President Abdulaye Wade says ballots in his strongholds were received very late, especially in the holy city of Touba, where police had to intervene to calm down riotous supporters of the former head of state.

“Our people have been robbed of the opportunity to vote their choice. It’s sad the democracy I worked for has been reversed,” Wade told a news conference today.

Voting in Touba was extended till 11 pm (2300GMT) last night over the late start.

Private TV Walfagiri showed footage from the town of Diourbel, 200 kilometers (123 miles) from Dakar, where voters attacked a polling station and threw the ballots in the air in protest over the late start.

But Prime Minister Mohamed Dion praised the conduct of the elections.

“The ruling coalition won a majority of seats because the Senegalese have trust in the leadership of President Macky Sall. It shows the majority are up for progress and development. I want to commend the elections commission for making the process a success,” he added.

Meanwhile, Awa Bah of the Open Society Foundation said they saw a high turnout despite the initial tension, violence, and fear.

“The organization of the elections was a key concern. Technical issues and a late start also affected the process,” she said.

If they wish to, the opposition should use legal means to challenge the results but avoid chaos, he added.