Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has officially dissolved the opposition-dominated National Assembly, setting new legislative elections for November 17, 2024.
The 44-year-old leader, who secured a decisive victory in the March 2024 presidential election, made the announcement on national television, stating his intent to pursue the “systemic transformation” he promised voters.
President Faye, along with Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, campaigned on a platform of sovereignty and pan-Africanism, resonating with Senegal’s youth, three-quarters of whom are under 35. However, the government has struggled to implement its agenda due to the lack of a parliamentary majority. According to Senegal’s constitution, Faye had the legal option to dissolve parliament from September 12 onward, which he has now exercised.
In his address, President Faye cited an uncooperative parliament, stating that their obstruction has hindered his administration’s progress. He also mentioned the mismanagement of public funds under former president Macky Sall, hinting at the imminent release of a report by Senegal’s court of auditors detailing “hidden excesses” of spending.
