Speculation about a potential dissolution of the National Assembly continues to dominate Senegal’s political landscape. During a Saturday rally in Linguère, Ousmane Sonko directly addressed President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, cautioning him against the electoral repercussions of such a move.

According to Sonko, any decision by the head of state to dissolve the Assembly would backfire severely, particularly if elections are called. The leader of Pastef argued that even local elections would result in a defeat for the ruling party. His remarks reflect an unwavering confidence in his party’s electoral strength, more than a year after assuming power.

« If he organizes local elections, we will defeat him. If he dissolves the Assembly, it will be even worse for him. In fact, that’s what we prefer—because we will crush him. And afterward, I wouldn’t be surprised if he steps down before 2029, » Sonko declared, addressing the president in direct terms.

Calls for calm among Pastef supporters

Beyond his warning to the president, Sonko also sought to rein in his own supporters. He urged Pastef militants to remain composed in the face of what he described as orchestrated destabilization attempts by political opponents.

« I call on everyone to stay vigilant and remain calm, » he stated. « They are trying to provoke Pastef so that our youth react, giving them an excuse to dissolve the party and revoke its registration. »

Sonko emphasized that the ability of his supporters to resist provocations would directly influence the outcome of upcoming elections. He expressed optimism that, with collective restraint, Pastef would emerge victorious in both local and potential early legislative polls, describing the process as a « walk in the park. »