In Gambia, the fight against female genital mutilation (FGM) faces a significant setback with a proposed law to decriminalize the practice. Despite previous progress, including the abandonment of FGM by numerous communities, the proposal has sparked concern among activists. The law, initially imposed by former dictator Yahya Jammeh, is now challenged by figures like Imam Abdoulie Fatty and MP Almameh Gibba, who argue for cultural rights. Activists, including Isatou Touray and Fallou Sowe, warn that repealing the law could undermine women's rights and set a precedent for other West African countries. The debate highlights the ongoing struggle for gender equality in a male-dominated parliament.

The article explores diverse perspectives on Europe from individuals across the globe, highlighting both admiration and criticism. Richard Nickless from the UK reflects on the complexities of Brexit, while Yann from Cameroon views Europe as a land of opportunity despite migration challenges. Çagla Gillis from Turkey and Noha Salah from Egypt discuss cultural perceptions and economic opportunities, respectively. Dr. Mamadou Demba Ndour from Senegal emphasizes the historical ties and potential collaborations between Europe and Africa. Polina Barinova from Russia and Allen Olson from the US share their views on Europe's cultural and political landscape. Helena Rodriguez from Colombia and Miwa Sawada from Japan express concerns about Europe's handling of migration and environmental issues, respectively. The article underscores the multifaceted image of Europe as seen by the rest of the world.

Bassirou Diomaye Faye has made history by winning the Senegal presidential election in the first round, becoming the country's youngest president. He replaced opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who was barred from running. The ruling party initially contested the victory, but former Prime Minister and presidential candidate Amadou Ba conceded defeat. President Macky Sall congratulated Faye, highlighting the victory for Senegalese democracy. Official results are expected later in the week. Celebrations erupted in Dakar, with Faye's supporters expressing their desire for systemic change and improvements in employment.

In Dakar's Parcelles-Assainies, a key electoral district, the opposition coalition led by Bassirou Diomaye Faye, chosen by main opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, campaigns nightly since March 11 ahead of the March 24 presidential election. Despite a shortened 12-day campaign due to a delay by President Macky Sall, and the imprisonment of Faye and Sonko, their release on March 14 energized their campaign. The coalition focuses on door-to-door canvassing and daily communal caravans, with strong youth support for their anti-corruption, anti-foreign enterprise, and pro-reform platform. The campaign also utilizes digital strategies to engage young voters. With 18 candidates, the election outcome remains uncertain.

The Senegalese presidential election is set for March 24, 2024, following a decision by the Constitutional Council, despite initial proposals for different dates. The decision has led to the dissolution of the government, with Amadou Ba replaced by Sidiki Kara as Prime Minister. The opposition welcomes the earlier election date, while concerns remain about the shortened campaign period and its impact. Key political figures like Karim Wade and Ousmane Sonko are excluded from the race due to legal issues. The decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising the adherence to democratic traditions and others criticizing it as a violation of electoral law.

The Senegalese presidential election has been rescheduled to March 24, sparking controversy due to the short campaign period. The Council Constitutionnel rejected proposals from a recent national dialogue, leading to the dissolution of the government and the release of Prime Minister Amadou Ba to focus on his campaign. Opposition figures criticize the decision, citing violations of electoral laws and insufficient time for campaigning. The Council's rejection of candidate list revisions excludes key opposition figures like Karim Wade and Ousmane Sonko. An amnesty law passed by the Assembly aims to pacify the political climate but faces criticism for ensuring impunity for serious offenses.

The proposed amnesty law in Senegal faces significant opposition from various political figures, organizations, and families of victims. Critics argue that the law would legalize impunity for those involved in violent repression of protests, denying justice to victims and their families. Amnesty International and other stakeholders demand investigations into the use of force by security forces. The law has also caused divisions within the ruling coalition, with some members expressing concerns about reconciliation and historical accountability.

Uncertainty surrounds the date of Senegal's presidential election as President Macky Sall has not set a new date, complicating the possibility of holding the election before his term ends on April 2, 2024. A national consultation involving candidates, civil society, and other stakeholders is scheduled to determine the election date, but consensus seems unlikely. Most candidates and civil society groups demand an election before April 2, criticizing the delay as a diversion. The Constitutional Council has annulled the previous election postponement, urging the president to organize the election promptly. Meanwhile, Sall has expressed a willingness to ease social tensions by potentially releasing opposition figures Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

The Senegalese Constitutional Council invalidated the postponement of the presidential elections, initially set for February 25, 2024, which was seen as an attempt to extend President Macky Sall's mandate. This decision was welcomed by the opposition and legal experts, who viewed the postponement as a violation of constitutional principles. Despite the ruling, the Council left the new election date to be set by the president, provided it occurs before April 2, 2024. The release of political detainees suggests ongoing mediation efforts, while the international community pressures President Sall to comply with the ruling to maintain national stability.

The Constitutional Council of Senegal has annulled the law postponing the presidential elections and extending the president's term, deeming it unconstitutional. President Macky Sall has committed to executing the decision and organizing elections promptly, though no date has been set. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a challenge to the president's authority. International pressures, particularly from the EU and the US, have called for timely elections and criticized the use of force. The release of political prisoners suggests a potential move towards dialogue, though skepticism remains.