Published：Jun 24, 06:12Last updated：Jul 6, 20:06

Senegal's Constitutional Reform Sparks Political Turmoil

Jun. 24, 2026 06:12

In Senegal, a constitutional reform proposal is being examined by a committee of MPs from both the ruling party and the opposition starting June 24, 2026. The goal is to propose amendments before the text is submitted for adoption by the full assembly next Monday, amid concerns about discrepancies between the presidency's and Pastef's proposals.

Summarized

10News

5Media

Jul. 4, 2026 14:56

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced plans to form his own political party on July 3, signaling a break with Ousmane Sonko and the Pastef party. The move comes as lawmakers passed a constitutional reform that may prevent the president from leading a party.

Jul. 6, 2026 20:06

Senegal is holding a referendum to decide on constitutional reforms that have sparked political turmoil. The proposed amendments would reduce the powers of President Faye. The public vote aims to resolve the contentious issue. The outcome could significantly alter Senegal's political landscape.

Senegal's constitutional reform process has ignited fierce political debates and protests, culminating in a controversial parliamentary vote and plans for a national referendum. The reform, which aims to shift power from the presidency to parliament, has deepened divisions between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and opposition leader Ousmane Sonko's Pastef party. Radio France Internationale+2

🏛️ Parliamentary Showdown

The National Assembly approved the reform on June 29 after heated debates and the expulsion of an opposition lawmaker. The bill passed overwhelmingly despite protests, with supporters arguing it strengthens democratic institutions. Fifteen civil society organizations had earlier demanded more transparency in the process. Radio France Internationale+2

⚖️ Power Shift Provisions

Key changes include reducing presidential authority, creating a Constitutional Court, and prohibiting the president from leading a political party. These measures were proposed by Sonko's party but have created tensions with President Faye, who subsequently announced plans to form his own party. France 24+2

🗳️ Referendum Road Ahead

The government has committed to putting the reform to a public vote, though no date has been set. Opposition MPs decried the parliamentary process as undemocratic, calling it a "dark day" for Senegal's legislature. The referendum outcome could reshape the country's political balance. Radio France Internationale+2

🌍 Dakar's Divided Response

Protests erupted in Dakar during the parliamentary session, reflecting public divisions over the reform. While ruling coalition supporters view it as necessary for checks and balances, opponents fear it undermines presidential authority and could destabilize governance. Radio France Internationale+2

DakarPastefOusmane SonkoNational AssemblyBassirou Diomaye Faye