Consular Warden Message - February 14, 2006

The U.S. Embassy in Dakar is issuing this Warden Message to inform U.S. citizens of the potential for violence and travel restrictions in association with Senegal’s upcoming presidential election.

Senegal will hold a presidential election on Sunday, February 25, 2007. On February 25, the Government of Senegal has prohibited non-election related travel between towns. Also on February 25, the Government of Senegal will forbid people from wearing clothing indicating their support for an individual candidate or that displays by its colors an obvious party affiliation. There is also a possibility that the Government will impose a curfew on Saturday, February 24, in the late evening.

The news media may report unofficial results on Sunday evening and official results are expected to be announced within a few days. Once results are announced, either formally or informally, there may be political rallies and demonstrations throughout Senegal. In the past, these events have sometimes turned violent, as have some campaign-related events. Due to the potential for violence before, on and shortly after Sunday, February 25, American citizens should avoid any large crowds, particularly political gatherings and street demonstrations, and maintain heightened security awareness at all times.