In a declaration issued on June 3, 2026, the Front for the Defense of Democracy and the Republic (FDR) formally requested the exclusion of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko from the National Assembly. The coalition argues that his presence within the legislative body contravenes existing legal provisions governing such roles in Senegal.

According to its statement, the FDR contends that the leader of PASTEF finds himself in an « illegal and illegitimate » situation. The group maintains that the current legal framework does not permit him to serve concurrently as a deputy while holding his executive office.

Political parties mobilize against alleged ‘parliamentary coup’

The opposition coalition has expressed its satisfaction with the widespread mobilization of various political parties and movements. They are united against what the FDR describes as an « attempted parliamentary coup » and commend the opposition deputies for formally referring the matter to the Constitutional Council.

The FDR highlights Article LO172 of the Electoral Code, which stipulates that any minister elected as a deputy must resign from the government within eight days, or they forfeit their parliamentary mandate. Furthermore, the coalition asserts that any amendments made to the internal rules of the National Assembly cannot, under any circumstances, supersede the established constitutional and legislative provisions that are currently in force.

The FDR views the process that facilitated Ousmane Sonko’s re-entry into the National Assembly as a clear violation of the Constitution, the Electoral Code, and the internal regulations governing the parliamentary institution itself.

Consequently, the coalition insists that the « illegal act of the Assembly » must be rescinded, and it demands the immediate removal of the Prime Minister from the National Assembly.

The FDR also extends an urgent appeal to all active forces within the nation, urging them to mobilize in defense of the Constitution, the rule of law, and the integrity of the Republic’s institutions.

This latest declaration comes at a time when the legal and political controversy surrounding Ousmane Sonko’s parliamentary status continues to be a central and highly debated topic across the Senegalese political landscape.