Senegalese opposition leader demands clarity on local polls in Louga

Ousmane Sonko, leader of Senegal’s ruling party Pastef Les Patriotes, used his visit to Louga this weekend to urge President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to set a firm date for upcoming local elections.

During a public address in the northern city, Sonko—who also serves as the National Assembly president—addressed a large crowd of party supporters as part of a nationwide outreach campaign to promote the sale of party membership cards.

The opposition leader drew a direct comparison between decrees used to appoint or dismiss officials and the decree expected to finalize the election schedule. In his speech, Sonko stated:

« While issuing a decree to remove officials like Fadilou Keïta or Waly Diouf Bodiang falls within the president’s authority, the same process must apply to setting the election date. Both actions are merely decrees. »

Sonko has repeatedly warned against any delay in the local elections, suggesting in Louga that the president’s hesitation may stem from concerns over his party’s growing momentum. He argued that President Faye fears the « enthusiasm and mobilization » of Senegalese citizens who support the Pastef movement.