Addressing growing speculation about election delays, Sonko delivered a definitive response. The head of the National Assembly emphasized that the upcoming local elections cannot be postponed, stating emphatically that postponing them would be unacceptable after lives were lost to prevent such a scenario. ‘We must remember that three people gave their lives to stop the postponement of the presidential election,’ he declared.

Sonko drew a clear distinction between the 2024 legislative elections and the upcoming local polls. The former were a constitutional necessity following the dissolution of the National Assembly, whereas the 2027 local elections are part of the regular electoral calendar. ‘The January 2027 elections are not optional; they are legally mandated. We cannot accept excuses about readiness. When election day arrives, citizens must cast their ballots,’ he asserted.

The PASTEF leader warned against any manipulation aimed at delaying the electoral process. ‘We fought to prevent delays, and some paid the ultimate price. Today, we refuse to tolerate maneuvers that could push these elections further down the line,’ he stressed. Sonko also highlighted the urgency of updating voter registration lists, noting that this essential step remains incomplete.

Expressing confidence in his party’s prospects, Sonko pointed to the ongoing sale of voter cards as a strong indicator of PASTEF’s electoral strength. ‘The pace and scale of card distribution already reflect our anticipated performance. This process serves as an early barometer of our support,’ he concluded.