Symbolic votes replace real polls as Senegalese declare a day of 'mourning' for democracy

A woman casts her vote at a mock voting station set up by members of the civil society and religions leaders group Aar Sunu Election (Protect Our Election) for people to exercise their right to vote in Dakar on 25 February 2024. AFP - JOHN WESSELS

Dakar, Senegal – Since 1978, presidential elections have always taken place in Senegal in February. This Sunday was the first time that this tradition was not observed. However, voters didn't want to stay home. Instead they took part in symbolic voting by turning up at their polling stations.

The civil society group 'Senegal Vote' invited citizens to go to the polls... even though they couldn't vote.