The Parti démocratique sénégalais (PDS) has officially declared its position regarding the proposed constitutional revisions. While the political group, under the leadership of Karim Wade, respects President Bassirou Diomaye Faye‘s choice to consult the citizenry, it is urging a massive “No” vote while launching a sharp critique against Ousmane Sonko.
In a formal statement, the PDS expressed satisfaction that the Head of State is allowing a national dialogue to culminate in a popular referendum. However, the party views this vote as a critical opportunity for the people of Sénégal to reject amendments they describe as hazardous to the country’s institutional stability.
A mobilization against proposed reforms
The party is calling on its members, supporters, and all concerned citizens to mobilize and cast a “No” ballot. According to the PDS, the suggested modifications are driven by the personal interests of Ousmane Sonko rather than the public good. They argue that these initiatives represent a calculated effort to undermine republican institutions and the very pillars of Senegalese democracy.
Furthermore, the communication suggests that the leader of Pastef is attempting to orchestrate an institutional crisis. This follows what the party describes as a period of economic and social decline under his influence. The PDS maintains that Ousmane Sonko is manipulating state mechanisms for partisan political gains and attempting to disrupt the established constitutional order.
Demands for institutional protection
The PDS has issued a call to the President of the Republic and judicial authorities to take every necessary step to safeguard national institutions, maintain civil harmony, and protect public freedoms. The party also took the opportunity to denounce recent physical altercations at the National Assembly, specifically citing violence against Deputy Abdou Mbow, which they attribute to representatives from the Pastef party.
This firm stance highlights the escalating political friction surrounding the constitutional reform project, as various factions across Sénégal continue to debate the future of the nation’s governing framework.