Dakar — The President of Senegal’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, has issued a fresh warning to Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Lô, raising the specter of a no-confidence motion against his government during a public address in Touba on Sunday.
The leader of the Pastef party, which commands a commanding majority in the Assembly, emphasized that constitutional tools remain at his disposal if the government’s actions warrant such a step. While Sonko acknowledged the gravity of the situation, he reassured that his intent is not to plunge the nation into institutional chaos, stressing that no « blank check » has been granted to the executive branch.
This latest declaration follows a period of heightened political tension, particularly after the constitutional reform was invalidated and amid mounting criticism directed at President Diomaye Faye. Sonko’s rhetoric in Touba signals a sharpening of his stance, further complicating the already delicate balance of power between the Assembly and the executive.
Constitutional reforms and political fallout
The decision to block the constitutional revision has intensified divisions within the political landscape. Sonko’s public reprimand of the « seven Wise Men »—a reference to the body tasked with advising on the reform—and his sharp criticism of the President highlight the deepening rifts. Observers note that these tensions could escalate if tangible progress on governance reforms is not achieved.
In his address, Sonko reiterated that the stability of Senegal’s institutions hinges on accountability and transparency. His warnings suggest that the government’s legitimacy may soon face a critical test in the Assembly, where his party’s dominance could make a no-confidence motion a decisive factor in the coming months.
