We, the undersigned organizations and members of the #KeepItOn coalition — a global network that unites over 250 organizations from 105 countries that work to end internet shutdowns 1 globally — write to urgently appeal to you, President Macky Sall, to ensure that the internet, social media platforms, and all other communication channels are open, secure, and accessible during the upcoming local elections, scheduled for January 23, in the Republic of Senegal and thereafter....

The internet, the world wide web and social media platforms play a critical role in enhancing participatory governance in democratic society. They provide space for communicating, public debate, seeking information on election processes and candidates, reporting and documenting events and outcomes, and holding governments accountable for their actions — including their promises to the people. Journalists, human rights defenders, election observers, civil society actors, and other relevant stakeholders count on the internet to monitor and report on elections, facilitating transparency and openness in the process. Internet shutdowns during critical events like elections may instigate violence, and spur the spread of misinformation, as reliable channels for fact-checking become inaccessible...

Telecommunications companies and businesses have a responsibility under the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises to respect human rights, prevent or mitigate potential harms, and provide remedy for harms they cause or contribute to...

We respectfully request that you use the important positions of your offices to:

1. Publicly assure the people of the Republic of the Senegal that the internet, including social media and other digital communication platforms, will remain open, accessible, and secure across Senegal throughout the election and thereafter;
2. Order internet service providers operating in the country to provide everyone with high-quality, secure, and unrestricted internet access throughout the election period and thereafter;

and 3. Order internet service providers operating in the country to inform internet users of any potential disruptions and to take all reasonable steps to fix any identified disruptions likely to impact the quality of service they receive.