The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), has launched a solemn appeal to Senegalese citizens.

Leonardo Santos Simão on the eve of the early legislative elections in Senegal, scheduled for this Sunday, November 17, invites them to exercise their civic duty in a spirit of peace and responsibility.

In a statement released on Friday, Simão encouraged voters to cast their ballots peacefully, stressing the importance of a peaceful electoral process for the consolidation of democracy in Senegal.

He also urged political actors, candidates and their supporters to refrain from any actions or speeches likely to provoke tensions, including incitement to violence or the use of hateful language, before, during and after the polls.

The Special Representative reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to support the country in this crucial stage while expressing his wishes for inclusive and peaceful elections.