A coalition of opposition lawmakers in the Sénégal National Assembly has escalated their legal battle by formally petitioning the Constitutional Council to invalidate the controversial decision reinstating Ousmane Sonko as a member of parliament.
The move follows a 24 May 2026 resolution by the Assembly’s Bureau, which controversially reversed earlier measures stripping Sonko of his seat. Opposition deputies argue this action violates both the Constitution and the principle of separation of powers, asserting it undermines the integrity of the legislative process.
Constitutional crisis declared
In a joint statement, the signatory lawmakers condemned what they describe as a “blatant constitutional breach” and a “serious violation” of parliamentary norms. They emphasize that Sonko, who served as Prime Minister before being elected to parliament in 2024, was automatically disqualified under Article 54 of the Constitution due to holding incompatible executive office. His reinstatement, they contend, disregards legal precedent and weakens institutional checks and balances.
The opposition bloc also highlighted procedural obstacles they faced in pursuing their challenge. Despite issuing formal summons via a court bailiff, they were denied access to critical documents—including the reinstatement order and the 26 May 2026 plenary session minutes—by senior Assembly officials. Such obstruction, they argue, obstructs transparency and infringes on the rights of elected representatives to scrutinize government actions.
Call for decisive constitutional intervention
The deputies urged the Constitutional Council to intervene with urgency, stressing that no parliamentary majority is exempt from constitutional oversight. Their statement concluded with a reaffirmation of their commitment to uphold the rule of law through peaceful, legal means, warning against the normalization of institutional overreach.
The signatories to the petition include prominent opposition figures:
- Daouda Dia
- Aïssata Ousmane Diallo
- Amadou Diallo
- Raqui Diallo
- Mamadou Diaw
- Salimata Diop Dieng
- Mbaye Dione
- Thérèse Faye
- Barane Fofana
- Cheikh Omar Hann
- Birima Mangara
- Abdou Mbow
- Fabineta Ndiaye
- Anta Babacar Ngom
- Thierno Alassane Sall
- Maguette Sène
- Abdoulaye Sylla
- Tafsir Thioye
