Senegal’s Sonko urges President Faye to set date for local elections in Louga

President Sonko calls on Bassirou Diomaye Faye to act on local election schedule

On a recent visit to Louga in northern Senegal, Ousmane Sonko, leader of the ruling Pastef Les Patriotes party and Speaker of the National Assembly, raised concerns about the delayed scheduling of upcoming local elections. Addressing a large crowd of party activists and supporters during a tour to sell membership cards, he emphasized the need for immediate action.

The opposition to any postponement of the local polls was clear in his remarks, as he questioned why the government continues to delay setting a date for the elections. Sonko highlighted the contrast between the swift issuance of other presidential decrees—such as those appointing or removing officials—and the inaction on the election timeline.

Comparing decrees: appointments versus election dates

« Issuing a decree to dismiss officials like Fadilou Keïta or Waly Diouf Bodiang falls within the president’s powers, and no one disputes that, » Sonko stated to loud applause. « But just as these decrees are issued without delay, the same urgency must apply to setting the election date. After all, they are merely decrees, » he added.

His comments suggest a growing impatience within the ruling party’s ranks as the delay in announcing the election date fuels speculation. Sonko went further, implying that the hesitation may stem from the government’s apprehension about the current momentum and grassroots support enjoyed by Pastef Les Patriotes.

The party leader asserted that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s administration fears the « fervor and mobilization » of the party’s members, which he described as « patriots » dedicated to national progress.

Demands for transparency and timely action

Sonko’s statements in Louga reflect broader concerns about governance and electoral timelines in Senegal. The call for clarity on the election schedule underscores the importance of adhering to democratic processes and maintaining public trust in institutions. As the country awaits further updates, the pressure on the government to provide a definitive election date continues to mount.