The Senegalese Constitutional Council has dealt another blow to Ousmane Sonko by rejecting the institutional reform proposed by the Pastef majority in parliament. The decision, issued yesterday, marks a significant setback for the party’s ambitious agenda aimed at rebalancing institutional powers.

The Council identified two major constitutional violations in the reform: the lack of a funding mechanism for the proposed Constitutional Court and procedural irregularities during the parliamentary examination of government amendments. The ruling came after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye personally referred the matter to the Council.

Implications for Senegal’s political landscape

This constitutional rejection comes at a particularly tense moment in Senegalese politics. The reform, which had already been approved by the National Assembly where the ruling party holds a comfortable majority, was designed to expand parliamentary oversight—particularly over natural resource contracts and previously restricted domains.

Ousmane Sonko, who was recently removed from the Prime Minister position, has publicly acknowledged the Council’s decision. Meanwhile, coalition supporters emphasize the importance of institutional balance and the need for continued dialogue on reform initiatives.

Reactions from political figures

Dr. Binette Ndiaye, coordinator of the Citizen Forum, praised the Council’s ruling, stating: “As a civil society member, I believe this initiative deserves commendation. The process lacked the necessary inclusivity from the outset. It appeared that a single political party sought to amend constitutional provisions without prior consultation or consensus-building. The Council has rightly reminded us that even with a majority, we must consider diverse perspectives.”

Adji Diarra Mergane Kanouté, former MP and leader of the USD/A party, added: “While the Council’s rejection of the law is significant, it doesn’t close the door on future revisions. However, any new proposal must comply with constitutional requirements, particularly regarding funding mechanisms for public initiatives such as elections and the Constitutional Court.”

Rising tensions at the heart of power

The Council’s decision arrives amid growing public rifts between Ousmane Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Sonko recently characterized the current political dynamic as a form of cohabitation, highlighting the increasing divisions within the ruling coalition. Political observers warn that this institutional clash could have lasting consequences for Senegal’s political stability.