(Ecofin Agency) - Senegal's Constitutional Council has ruled against the postponement of the presidential election, deeming it unconstitutional. However, the high court has not provided any guidance on resolving the current political deadlock.

The ruling declared the law pushing the presidential election to December 15, 2024, and allowing President Macky Sall to oversee the transition period after his term ends, as contrary to the country's constitution. This judgment comes amidst a tense political climate, with the decision not yet publicly accessible, leaving many in speculation about the court's reasoning. This move follows President Macky Sall's controversial decision to delay the initially scheduled election on February 25, amid accusations of corruption within the Constitutional Council by the parliament.

The situation escalated as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged President Sall to reconsider the election's postponement. The cancellation of the decree and the postponement law has deepened divisions within Senegal's ruling class and society at large.

Under Article 31 of the Senegalese Constitution, provisions for power vacancy due to definitive incapacity are outlined, applying to President Sall who is barred from seeking re-election after his term. Article 39 mandates that the President of the National Assembly assume transitional duties, with a requirement to hold elections between 60 to 90 days after the vacancy begins.

The Constitutional Council's decision, however, has introduced more uncertainty rather than clarity. The crisis was initially sparked by the institution's rejection of Karim Wade's candidacy, leading to his party's call for an investigation into the Council's integrity, a decision that is beyond appeal.

Senegal faces international criticism over its democratic crisis, accused of applying double standards compared to sanctions against other African nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali. Nonetheless, Senegal's situation is distinct. President Sall has vowed not to run for re-election, relying on institutional arguments rather than military force to maintain power. While different, this democratic crisis mirrors issues in the Netherlands, where the rise of an extreme right party has led to surprise, concern, and an institutional deadlock preventing government formation.