Senegal’s top court has declared the postponement by President Macky Sall of this month’s elections unconstitutional. The decision nullifies President Sall’s decree and a controversial bill passed by parliament, which had rescheduled the vote to December.

The move has sparked widespread protests in the West African nation, long seen as a beacon of democracy in the region. Opposition leaders have denounced the postponement, labeling it an “institutional coup.”

President Sall had justified the delay by citing concerns over the eligibility of opposition candidates. Despite his assurance that he would not seek re-election, critics accused him of either trying to extend his tenure or exert undue influence over his successor.

The proposed six-month postponement was extended to 10 months, with elections now slated for December 15. The court emphasized the impossibility of holding the elections on the original date of February 25, just 10 days away, but urged authorities to reschedule them “as soon as possible.”

The court’s decision coincided with the release of several opposition figures and civil society members from prison, a move seen by some as an attempt to calm public unrest.

Senegal, known for its political stability, has never experienced a military coup and has seen three peaceful transitions of power. President Sall, in office since 2012, is set to conclude his second term in April.