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AFP
Senegal's Interior Minister Ousmane Ngom on Friday banned the carrying of firearms for a period of four months which will include presidential elections, after recent violent political clashes.

"Between January 4, 2012 and April 30, 2012 the carrying of arms, ammunition and explosive devices of all categories is banned across the national territory," read a decree issued by Ngom.

"During this period, no weapon regardless of its category or nature, may be transported outside of homes or workplaces. This ban applies to nationals and foreigners holding permits to carry or hold arms," said the decree.

An interior minister official, speaking on condition of anonymity told AFP that carrying a weapon under normal circumstances was permitted with special authorisation from the ministry, while another permit allowed gun-owners to keep weapons at home or in their office.

He said the measure would apply only to civilians, and not defence and security forces who use their arms as part of their work.

Senegal holds a first-round presidential election on February 26 in which President Abdoulaye Wade is seeking a controversial third term which the opposition says is unconstitutional.

Considered one of Africa's most democratic nations, Senegal has been riven by tensions in recent months and clashes between opponants and ruling party supporters left one dead and three injured on December 22.