Senegal’s constitutional reform praised for strengthening democracy and transparency
Dakar, June 29 — The President of Senegal’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, has hailed the recently adopted constitutional reform as a landmark achievement that significantly bolsters democratic governance and public accountability. Speaking during a plenary session dedicated to reviewing Proposal No. 17/2026, which aims to revise the Constitution, Sonko emphasized the transformative potential of the amendments.
The reform, championed by deputies from the Pastef-Les Patriotes parliamentary group, was endorsed by a majority vote in the National Assembly. Sonko, who presided over the session, confirmed that the finalized text would be forwarded to the President of the Republic for approval, stressing that the process had already secured constitutional validation.
“The Constitutional Council’s endorsement ensures that this reform meets all legal requirements and reflects the nation’s commitment to democratic progress,” Sonko stated, adding that the amendments had undergone extensive deliberation over several years. “These changes are not merely procedural adjustments; they represent a collective effort to refine our democratic institutions and reinforce transparency in public administration.”
Dialogue and consensus in constitutional reform
While acknowledging the importance of political dialogue, Sonko clarified that such discussions, though valuable, do not replace institutional processes. He recalled the inclusive nature of the reform’s development, noting that Pastef-Les Patriotes had participated in broader political consultations alongside various factions and civil society organizations. “The amendments align with the outcomes of these consultations, ensuring that the reform reflects the aspirations of the Senegalese people,” he explained.
Sonko also highlighted the reform’s role in streamlining governance, stating that it would eliminate redundancies and enhance efficiency in public administration. “This is not just about legal compliance; it is about creating a system that is more responsive to the needs of citizens,” he asserted.
Commitment to transparency: asset declarations
Addressing his own adherence to transparency, Sonko, who previously served as Prime Minister, announced that he would soon submit a fresh declaration of assets following his recent departure from government. “As a former head of government, I have a legal obligation to update my asset declaration within three months of leaving office,” he noted. “I intend to fulfill this requirement next week, reaffirming my commitment to accountability.”