new electoral law revives possibility of Ousmane Sonko running in 2029
Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has signed an electoral reform bill that could clear the way for opposition leader Ousmane Sonko to contest the 2029 presidential election.
The newly enacted legislation modifies the rules governing civic rights deprivation in Senegal. The reform introduces a five-year limitation period after sentence completion and applies retroactively, potentially enabling Ousmane Sonko to run for president.
Sonko’s 2024 exclusion from the race
The current Prime Minister was barred from contesting the 2024 presidential election following a defamation conviction upheld by the Supreme Court. He subsequently endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the Pastef party candidate, who ultimately won the election.
Growing tensions within the ruling coalition
The electoral reform has sparked significant divisions within the Pastef party. Some of Ousmane Sonko’s allies recently accused President Faye of attempting to obstruct the legislation, fueling speculation about internal rivalries ahead of the 2029 election.
Political landscape shifts
Despite his conviction, Ousmane Sonko was elected to parliament in the 2024 legislative elections before resigning his seat to remain Prime Minister. His supporters now argue this confirms his future eligibility to run for president.
