Sonko criticises Senegal’s electoral decree delays amid political tensions

Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Patriotes movement, has intensified pressure on Senegal’s president, calling for an electoral decree to set the date for upcoming local elections. Speaking during a high-energy rally in the heart of the Ndiambour region, he drew parallels between the president’s authority to dismiss officials and the need for a similar decree to finalise the election timeline.

« Removing Fadilou Keïta from the Caisse des dépôts et consignations or appointing Doune Pathé Mbengue to lead the Port autonome de Dakar are decisions within the president’s powers. Yet, these same executive prerogatives must be used to set an election date—no more, no less, » Sonko asserted, referencing recent high-profile dismissals that have stirred public debate.

The Patriotes leader’s remarks come amid mounting concerns over the electoral calendar. Djibril Gningue, a respected electoral analyst, warns that the president’s window to issue the decree is narrowing rapidly. If delayed much longer, the legal framework for organising the polls could become unworkable, he cautioned.

Sonko’s latest intervention underscores his unwavering stance against any postponement of the local elections, a position he has repeatedly emphasised since launching his nationwide voter registration campaign in late July. His tour of the Ndiambour region drew significant crowds, reflecting strong grassroots support for his position.

The absence of a published decree to convene the electorate has deepened institutional friction between the executive and legislative branches. The president’s failure to act has left the electoral process in limbo, with lawmakers and civil society observers questioning the government’s commitment to timely preparations.