Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party, has strongly criticized the opposition’s decision to file a constitutional challenge against his reinstatement as a member of the National Assembly. The move, spearheaded by opposition lawmakers and independents, aims to overturn the Assembly’s Bureau decision from May 24, which reinstated Sonko as a deputy.

Political scheming exposed, claims Sonko

In a sharp reaction, Sonko described the opposition’s actions as part of a calculated political conspiracy designed to sideline him. He emphasized that the constitutional filing was a deliberate misuse of legal processes to achieve political ends.

« This is pure manipulation, a clear case of weaponizing state institutions against opponents, » Sonko declared. « Those behind this move knew full well that the matter does not fall under the Constitutional Council’s jurisdiction. »

He further warned that any attempt to leverage state authority to obstruct his political career would be met with a firm legal response, invoking constitutional rights to defend his position.

Legal battle over parliamentary eligibility

The opposition’s petition centers on claims that Sonko’s reinstatement violates constitutional provisions, particularly Article 54, which prohibits holding certain public offices alongside a parliamentary mandate. Their argument hinges on the assertion that Sonko, who served as Prime Minister before being elected as a deputy in 2024, was ineligible to hold both positions simultaneously.

The June 1 statement from the lawmakers and independents outlined their formal complaint, demanding the annulment of the Assembly’s decision. The case has now been referred to the Constitutional Council, setting the stage for a high-stakes legal confrontation.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst