Senegal’s Parliamentary Elections: Historic Rivalries Resurface in Battle for Power

In Senegal’s latest parliamentary elections, former political rivals go head-to-head once again, making for an intense contest with significant implications. 

This weekend’s parliamentary elections in Senegal feature former presidential adversaries, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and ex-President Macky Sall, vying for dominance over the 165-seat National Assembly. This contest follows their confrontation in the March 2024 presidential election.

In September, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye disbanded parliament due to alleged obstruction by the opposition and announced early elections. The election race is primarily led by four major coalitions, one of which includes the Takku Wallu party supported by Sall.

Senegalese voters typically provide the president with a parliamentary majority, yet economic difficulties such as unemployment, inflation, and recent flooding have sparked dissatisfaction.

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Former President Sall, currently campaigning from Morocco, has accused Faye’s administration of undoing the economic advancements he achieved. In reply, Faye’s government attributes delays in implementing reforms to mismanagement by the previous opposition and insufficient parliamentary backing.

Tensions have risen throughout the campaign, with reports of harassment targeting supporters of Sonko. Nevertheless, analysts believe that Faye’s Pastef party has a strong opportunity to secure a majority due to Sonko’s active engagement with voters across the country.

The outcome of the elections will decide if Faye can carry out his agenda or encounter ongoing opposition in parliament.