Significant political friction is emerging at the highest levels of the Senegalese government following the National Assembly’s adoption of a proposed constitutional law. Ousmane Sonko, who presides over the legislative body, has openly voiced strong criticism against President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, accusing him of attempting to revise constitutional provisions that he staunchly defended during his time in opposition. This development highlights an unprecedented period of tension within the state leadership in Senegal.
Addressing the deputies, Ousmane Sonko underscored that this constitutional overhaul represents the culmination of over a decade of dedicated political deliberation. Its foundations are deeply rooted in the outcomes of extensive national dialogue and the diligent work of numerous expert commissions. From Sonko’s perspective, these long-established commitments cannot be unilaterally undermined by the personal preferences of any single leader.
« The Constitution does not belong to Bassirou Diomaye Faye », Sonko declared emphatically. He condemned the head of state’s apparent desire to backtrack on specific articles, particularly the mandate requiring a declaration of assets at the conclusion of a presidential term and the prohibition against the President of the Republic simultaneously leading a political party.
« One cannot simply take a text, review it article by article, and then decide: no, I no longer wish to declare my assets upon leaving office; no, I want to be the president of a party », the National Assembly president asserted, emphasizing the integrity of the constitutional process.
Ousmane Sonko views this approach as a profound departure from the Pastef party’s core historical principles, which have been upheld since 2014. He specifically accused President Faye of beginning to « manipulate » the proposed reform, selectively retaining only those provisions that would personally benefit him as the head of state.
« He started to consider what suited him and what did not suit him, as President of the Republic », Sonko stated pointedly. Despite these sharp criticisms, Ousmane Sonko urged Bassirou Diomaye Faye to formally promulgate the law as adopted by the deputies. He maintained that the qualified majority vote achieved is entirely sufficient to validate the constitutional revision, rendering a national referendum unnecessary.
Concluding his address with a poignant question, Sonko mused, « What has changed in our younger brother and president? » He then expressed a heartfelt wish for the head of state to reaffirm what he considers the foundational principles of his political engagement and to honor the solemn promises made to the Senegalese people.
