Ousmane Sonko’s surprising shift on the Constitutional Council
In a notable turn of events, Ousmane Sonko has demonstrated a marked inconsistency in his public statements regarding Senegal’s Constitutional Council. His discourse has shifted from advocating for the respect of institutional decisions to delivering sharp criticism. During the recent inauguration of Pastef’s headquarters in Touba, the political leader openly condemned what he perceives as presidential influence over legislation passed by deputies, labeling the situation as profoundly concerning for African politics today.
Ousmane Sonko’s stance on the Constitutional Council appears to have undergone a significant transformation within a short period. Following the Council’s decision to invalidate a bill adopted by the National Assembly – a text intended to bolster parliamentary powers at the expense of the President of the Republic – the Pastef president had initially urged adherence to the ruling.
“This decision is binding on all! (…) In a democracy, when institutions fulfill their roles, each within its designated sphere of action, no crisis can emerge,” Ousmane Sonko had previously asserted. However, his address at the Pastef headquarters inauguration in Touba revealed a dramatically altered perspective. Addressing his supporters, he vehemently challenged the judgment issued by the seven members of the Constitutional Council.
“The Constitutional Council cannot dictate that deputies must pass laws that merely appease the President of the Republic. What is unfolding in this nation is grave,” he declared, capturing the attention of those following Africa politics English. Sonko further questioned the Head of State’s repeated appeals to the Constitutional Council. Referring to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, he remarked, “Every week, he resorts to the Constitutional Council.”
