The National Assembly of Senegal has approved a constitutional revision bill in a decisive vote on June 29, 2026, with 129 members of the ruling Pastef party’s majority present in the chamber. The move came despite a boycott by opposition lawmakers, highlighting the deep political divisions gripping the country.
Following the vote, President of the National Assembly Ousmane Sonko publicly addressed President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, expressing concerns over key amendments introduced in the final version of the constitutional text. Sonko’s remarks underscored a growing rift between the two leaders, who had once campaigned side by side under the Pastef banner in the 2024 presidential election.
« We still have hope. There is never a wrong time to return to the core principles that define our political identity. I find it difficult to believe such a drastic shift could occur in such a short span, » Sonko stated, directly questioning the President’s evolving stance on critical governance issues.
One of the most contentious points raised by Sonko revolves around the presidential asset declaration requirement. The original proposal mandated that the President submit a detailed declaration of assets both upon assuming office and upon leaving it—a commitment Sonko emphasized was repeatedly affirmed during campaign trails. However, the final version of the constitutional text appears to dilute this provision, sparking sharp criticism from the Assembly President.
« What gives one individual the authority to selectively enforce certain provisions while disregarding others? » Sonko declared. « This is simply unacceptable. A promise made to the Senegalese people cannot be reneged upon based on convenience. »
The public exchange between Sonko and Faye lays bare the escalating tensions within Senegal’s political leadership, raising questions about the durability of their once-unified vision for the nation’s future.
