Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party, has categorically rejected any speculation about postponing the upcoming local elections scheduled for January 2027. His declaration comes as a response to growing concerns over potential delays, particularly after the sacrifices made to prevent an earlier postponement of the presidential election.
No room for postponement
During a public address, Sonko emphasized the importance of adhering to the electoral calendar. « We must remember that three lives were lost to prevent the postponement of the presidential election, » he stated. « There is no justification for delaying the first election since President Diomaye Faye took office. The 2024 legislative elections were an exception due to the dissolution of the National Assembly, not part of the regular electoral schedule. »
Electoral law must prevail
Sonko stressed that the 2027 local elections are firmly anchored in the legal framework and cannot be postponed. « The elections must take place in January 2027. When the date arrives, the people will be called to vote, » he declared. He also highlighted the urgency of updating electoral lists, noting that delays in this process could undermine the integrity of the elections. « We fought hard, and some paid the ultimate price, to prevent postponements. We will not tolerate any maneuvers to delay these elections, » he asserted.
PASTEF’s electoral strength
Sonko expressed confidence in his party’s dominance in the upcoming elections, citing the ongoing sale of voter cards as a strong indicator of their electoral performance. « The results of the voter card sales already provide a glimpse of our future success before the actual vote. This process serves as an excellent barometer of our electoral strength, » he concluded.
