Senator Ousmane Sonko issues stark warning to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye over potential assembly dissolution
The leader of Pastef has cautioned that any electoral process initiated by the president would weaken his position, with a legislative dissolution proving particularly damaging to the ruling party.
Political observers in Senegal remain fixated on the possibility of a national assembly dissolution. During a Saturday gathering of his party in Linguère, Ousmane Sonko directly addressed President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, warning of the electoral consequences should such a step be taken.
According to the Pastef chairman, any nationwide vote—whether local elections or legislative polls—would expose the government to significant electoral risks. However, he emphasized that a parliamentary dissolution would represent the most perilous path for the administration, potentially triggering a devastating political backlash.
« If he proceeds with local elections, we will defeat him. But if he dissolves the Assembly, the consequences will be far worse for his government—and that is precisely what we desire. We will trounce him decisively. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if he steps down before 2029, » Sonko declared in a firm message directed at the « occupant of the presidential palace. » His remarks reflect an unshaken confidence in Pastef’s sustained electoral dominance, more than a year after assuming power.
Pastef urged to maintain restraint amid political provocations
Beyond his warning to the head of state, Sonko took time to address his own supporters, urging them to exercise caution in the face of what he described as orchestrated attempts by political rivals to provoke unrest.
« I call on our people to remain vigilant and composed. Opponents are actively seeking ways to incite Pastef members, hoping to trigger reactions that could lead to our party’s dissolution or the withdrawal of our registration, » he cautioned. According to Sonko, any reckless behavior from militants could be exploited by adversaries to justify repressive measures against his formation.
For the opposition leader, the ability of Pastef’s base to remain disciplined will be decisive in shaping the outcome of the upcoming electoral calendar. He anticipates that, with collective composure, both local and potential snap legislative elections would result in an easy victory for his party, which he described as a « walk in the park. »
