Sonko warns Faye over parliamentary dissolution ahead of elections

Senatorial elections could be looming on the horizon as political tensions escalate in Sénégal. Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party, has taken a bold stance by publicly challenging President Bassirou Diomaye Faye over the potential dissolution of the National Assembly.

The scenario has sparked intense debate across Sénégal, with Sonko issuing a stark warning during a recent rally in Linguère. In a direct appeal to the head of state, he cautioned that any decision to dissolve parliament would backfire, further weakening the administration’s position in upcoming polls.

Sonko emphasized that whether the president opts for local elections or a parliamentary dissolution, his party would emerge victorious. However, he stressed that the latter option would prove particularly damaging for Faye’s government. “If he organizes local elections, we will beat him. If he dissolves the Assembly, it will be even worse for him—and that’s exactly what we prefer,” Sonko declared, addressing the president directly. “We will trounce him decisively. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if he resigns before 2029,” he added, projecting unshaken confidence in his party’s electoral dominance over a year after taking power.

Calling for restraint among supporters

Beyond his confrontation with the presidency, Sonko also sought to temper expectations within his own ranks. Addressing activists in Linguère, he urged them to remain composed amid what he described as orchestrated attempts by political opponents to provoke unrest.

“I call on everyone to stay vigilant and calm,” he stated. “They are trying to provoke Pastef so that our youth react violently, giving them an excuse to dissolve the party and revoke its registration.” He cautioned that any reckless behavior could be exploited to target his movement, warning that discipline would be key to securing victories in the next electoral contests—be it local elections or early legislative polls.

Sonko framed the upcoming votes as a “walk in the park” for his party, should militants maintain their composure. His remarks reflect a broader optimism within Pastef, where leaders anticipate a smooth path to further electoral success, provided their supporters avoid falling into traps set by adversaries.