Senegal’s president launches new political party amid growing tensions

President Faye moves to consolidate power with new political formation

Senegal’s President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has taken a decisive step toward reshaping the country’s political landscape by announcing the creation of a new political party. The initiative was unveiled following a four-hour meeting with 306 mayors from all 14 regions of Senegal, all of whom are part of the Diomaye Président Coalition. The move aims to formalize support for the president’s agenda and strengthen his political base amid shifting power dynamics at the highest levels of government.

In a statement released by the coalition, the decision reflects a natural progression of its commitment to governance. The yet-to-be-named party will prioritize “organic unity” around President Faye, ensuring alignment ahead of upcoming elections. Aminata Touré, the coalition’s general supervisor, has been tasked with establishing a dedicated committee to draft organizational and statutory frameworks for the new party without delay.

Local officials who attended the gathering reiterated their strong backing for the president’s reform agenda, particularly his focus on territorial equity. They emphasized the importance of empowering local governments as a cornerstone of public policy, signaling a potential shift in how Senegal addresses regional development and governance.

Fractures deepen between President Faye and former ally Ousmane Sonko

The launch of the new political party comes at a time of escalating tensions between President Faye and Ousmane Sonko, his former ally and now a key political rival. Sonko, who stepped down as Prime Minister in May 2026, currently serves as President of the National Assembly, where his party holds a majority that continues to shape legislative outcomes.

A major point of contention between the two leaders centers on a constitutional reform passed by lawmakers on June 29. The reform includes provisions that would prohibit the president from simultaneously leading a political party, transform the Constitutional Council into a Constitutional Court, and expand the powers of the legislature. These changes have sparked a debate over how the reform should be implemented.

While Sonko advocates for direct promulgation by the president based on legal precedent, President Faye insists on holding a referendum to allow citizens to weigh in directly. As of now, no date has been set for such a vote, leaving the path forward uncertain.