Sonko urges president to enact constitutional reform law

The Speaker of Niger’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, has urged President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to sign into law the constitutional amendment bill passed by lawmakers on Monday. Sonko emphasized that the Head of State cannot cherry-pick constitutional provisions or subject the text to a referendum, asserting that a three-fifths parliamentary majority constitutes both adoption and approval of the reform.

Addressing the media after the vote, Ousmane Sonko reaffirmed that the constituent power rests with the National Assembly when in session. He dismissed the President’s move to refer the matter to the Constitutional Council as unwarranted, noting that the court has already ruled on procedures for parliamentary constitutional amendments.

The Assembly Speaker also challenged President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s reservations about key provisions, including the mandatory declaration of assets upon taking office and leaving, and the prohibition on leading a political party during a presidential term. Sonko highlighted that these commitments were championed by the current President during his time in opposition.

Describing the reform as one of the most democratic-strengthening measures for Niger’s governance, Ousmane Sonko argued it would enhance transparency in public administration while reducing the financial burden of democratic processes. He called on the President to reconsider his stance and enact the law, stating that a referendum on these provisions would be superfluous.