Ousmane Sonko’s shifting stance on the Constitutional Council
Ousmane Sonko recently demonstrated a notable inconsistency in his public statements regarding the Constitutional Council, transitioning from an initial call for adherence to its rulings to delivering sharp criticisms. During the inauguration of Pastef’s new headquarters in Touba, he openly condemned what he perceives as presidential influence over legislation passed by parliamentary deputies, describing the situation as exceedingly serious.
The political leader, Ousmane Sonko, has evidently recalibrated his stance on the Constitutional Council, with his position seemingly evolving significantly over a mere few days. Following the Council’s decision to invalidate a bill passed by the National Assembly – a text designed to enhance the Parliament’s powers at the expense of the President of the Republic – the Pastef president had initially urged respect for the Council’s ruling.
“This decision is binding on all! (…) In a democracy, when institutions fulfill their roles, each within its defined scope of action, no crisis can arise,” Ousmane Sonko had previously asserted. However, addressing his supporters at the Pastef headquarters inauguration in Touba, the prominent figure presented a markedly different narrative. He vehemently criticized the judgment delivered by the seven members of the Constitutional Council.
“The Constitutional Council cannot dictate that deputies must pass laws solely to please the President of the Republic. What is unfolding in this country is grave,” he declared. Ousmane Sonko further questioned the Head of State’s frequent appeals to the Constitutional Council. “Every week, he refers matters to the Constitutional Council,” he remarked, alluding to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
