Hundreds March in Dakar Over Broken Government Promises and Rising Cost of Living

Hundreds of workers, union members and opposition supporters took to the streets of Dakar on Wednesday to protest what they say are broken government promises and a worsening cost of living. The march was organised by major labour unions and the opposition coalition Front for the Defence of Democracy and the Republic (FDR), with participants criticising the government for failing to honour commitments made in exchange for a freeze on strike action.

Protesters, many wearing red scarves and union hats, carried placards and chanted slogans calling for the rehiring of laid‑off public sector workers, lower income taxes and accountability for economic hardships affecting households across the country. Several marchers also expressed frustration over job losses tied to restructuring at key state institutions, including the port of Dakar.

Speakers at the protest accused the government of reneging on its promises to improve wages and working conditions. Authorities say they are constrained by a deepening debt crisis, which has left limited funds available for new spending. The economic strain has been exacerbated by a higher‑than‑expected national debt and stalled negotiations with international lenders.

The unrest in Dakar highlights growing discontent as many Senegalese grapple with rising costs of living. Campaigners and union leaders have called on the government to take urgent action to address inflation, unemployment and the broader economic challenges facing the country.

The protests come amid broader national debate about economic policy and governance, with calls for greater transparency and delivery on reform promises made by political leaders since taking office.