Riots in Senegal as Wade cleared for third term bid

Rights activists have warned against a repetition of violent riots in June last year, and clashes between rival parties in December that left one person dead.

Amnesty International has warned the "potential for destabilisation is huge", and urged political leaders to make sure their supporters did not resort to violence.

On Friday, the 15-nation Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) appealed for calm and restraint in a statement expressing "serious concern for the rising tensions among political parties and citizens."

Wade, a veteran opposition figure who dislodged the Socialist Party after 40 years of rule in 2000 elections, on his fifth shot at the presidency, has grown increasingly unpopular as he attempts to cling to power.

He has faced criticism over corruption, financial scandals and nepotism, with many accusing him of trying to position his son Karim Wade, 44, as his successor.

French foreign ministry spokesman Romain Nadal on Thursday: "It is up to everyone to prove their responsibility. The future of Senegal is at stake in these elections."

US deputy assistant secretary of state for African affairs, William Fitzgerald, said Monday that Wade's bid to stay in office was "regrettable".

Senegal has long been seen as a good example of democracy in Africa, with previous leaders Leopold Sedar Senghor and Abdou Diouf peacefully handing over power.

Unlike many countries in the region, Senegal has never experienced a military coup.