The Senegalse president’s hopes for a breakthrough in the electoral deadlock have been dashed as 16 candidates, including key opposition figures, have refused to participate in national consultations called by Macky Sall. This boycott isolates the head of state and deprives him of his last lifeline, raising the specter of a major constitutional crisis.

On Saturday, the opposition FC25 group of candidates has issued a statement denying claims that they will participate in the presidential election consultations initiated by the government. They maintain their stance of not endorsing the electoral process, which they believe lacks transparency and fairness.

President Sall, who had promised not to seek a third term, had pinned his hopes on these talks to find a consensus solution. However, the main presidential candidates have rejected his invitation, citing concerns over the timing of the vote and the incarceration of opposition figures, including Ousmane Sonko.

The failure of this dialogue initiative has heightened tensions and increased fears of violence, with Senegal facing the possibility of a legal void after April 2. While the Constitution provides for the President of the Assembly to assume an interim role, the lack of precedent for this situation could complicate matters.

With time running out, President Sall is under immense pressure to find a resolution and prevent further chaos. However, the failure of the dialogue has narrowed the options for ending the crisis, leaving Senegal on the brink of uncertainty.