The political landscape in Senegal remains tense as speculation grows over a potential dissolution of the National Assembly. During a recent campaign rally in Linguère, opposition leader Ousmane Sonko delivered a sharp warning to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, cautioning him about the electoral repercussions of such a move.
Sonko, leader of the Pastef party, argued that any decision to dissolve the Assembly would ultimately weaken the ruling party in upcoming elections. He emphasized that while local elections could pose a challenge, a dissolution would be even more damaging for President Faye. “If he holds local elections, we will defeat him. If he dissolves the Assembly, it will be even worse for him—and that’s exactly what we want,” Sonko declared to the assembled crowd, addressing the president directly as the “occupant of the presidential palace.”
His remarks reflect growing confidence within his party, which believes its electoral dominance has only strengthened since taking power over a year ago. Sonko went further, suggesting that such a move could even force the president to step down before his term ends in 2029.
Appeal for calm among party supporters
Beyond his warning to the president, Sonko also sought to rally his own supporters, urging them to remain composed in the face of what he described as orchestrated attempts to destabilize the party. “I call on everyone to stay vigilant and calm,” he stated, warning that adversaries were actively trying to provoke Pastef members into actions that could lead to the party’s dissolution or the revocation of its registration.
Sonko stressed that disciplined resistance from his militants would be crucial in determining the outcome of future elections—whether local or legislative. He expressed unwavering optimism, framing the upcoming polls as a “walk in the park” for his party, provided his supporters maintain their resolve. According to him, a calm and united front would ensure a sweeping victory for Pastef in all scenarios.
