In a decisive move to reshape Senegal’s political landscape, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has announced the creation of a new political party aimed at uniting all forces backing his leadership. The announcement came during a four-hour meeting with 306 mayors representing the country’s 14 regions, all members of the Coalition Diomaye Président.
The initiative, outlined in an official statement from the coalition, seeks to formalize the President’s political support base as power dynamics continue to shift within the state apparatus. To expedite the process, President Faye has tasked Aminata Touré, the coalition’s general supervisor, with forming a dedicated committee. This group will draft the organizational and statutory foundations of the new party in the shortest possible timeframe.
The coalition’s statement frames this effort as a natural progression of its commitment to President Faye’s vision. It emphasizes that the future party will be built around a « structural unity » centered on the Head of State, particularly in preparation for upcoming electoral challenges.
During the gathering, local officials reaffirmed their unwavering support for the presidential agenda, praising the leader’s commitment to reinforcing territorial equity. They highlighted the importance of placing local governments at the heart of public policy initiatives.
This political restructuring unfolds against a backdrop of growing rifts between President Faye and his former ally, Ousmane Sonko. The latter, who stepped down from the Prime Minister’s office in May 2026, now serves as President of the National Assembly. His continued influence stems from a strong parliamentary majority.
The two leaders have found themselves at odds over the constitutional reform passed by deputies on June 29. The changes include prohibiting the President from simultaneously leading a political party, transforming the Constitutional Council into a Constitutional Court, and expanding Parliament’s powers.
The disagreement has intensified over how the reform should be finalized. While Ousmane Sonko advocates for direct promulgation by the President, citing legal precedent, Bassirou Diomaye Faye insists on holding a referendum to allow citizens to decide directly. The date for such a vote remains undetermined.
