The Constitutional Council of Senegal has struck down the institutional reform proposed by the parliamentary majority of the Pastef party, dealing a significant blow to its leader, Ousmane Sonko. The decision, rendered yesterday, invalidates a legislative text that sought to rebalance institutional powers, a move supported by Sonko’s supporters.
The reform, which was adopted by the National Assembly where the ruling party holds a comfortable majority, aimed to strengthen checks and balances within the government. However, the Council identified two major irregularities: the absence of a financing mechanism for the future Constitutional Court outlined in the reform, and the failure to follow proper parliamentary procedures during the examination of government amendments.
The Council’s ruling comes after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye himself referred the matter for review, highlighting the gravity of the constitutional concerns. Adji Diarra Mergane Kanouté, a former deputy and leader of the USD/A party, emphasized that while the decision halts the proposed referendum, it does not close the door entirely. She noted that the Assembly could reintroduce a revised proposal, provided it adheres to constitutional requirements, particularly regarding public funding for new institutions like the Constitutional Court.
“The Council’s decision underscores that even with a parliamentary majority, constitutional procedures must be strictly followed,” Kanouté stated. “The absence of compensatory revenue for the proposed reforms, as mandated by the Constitution, and the violation of parliamentary procedures were critical flaws that justified the annulment.”
Political reactions and implications
The political fallout has been immediate. Ousmane Sonko acknowledged the Council’s decision in a social media statement, while the presidential coalition reiterated its commitment to institutional integrity and ongoing reform discussions. Dr. Binette Ndiaye, coordinator of the Civic Forum, praised the Council’s ruling as a necessary safeguard against unilateral constitutional changes.
“This decision sends a clear message that constitutional amendments require inclusive dialogue and broad consensus,” Ndiaye said. “No single party, even with a majority, should unilaterally reshape the nation’s legal framework without proper deliberation.”
A deepening rift at the heart of power
The Council’s decision arrives amid escalating tensions between Sonko and President Faye. Since Sonko’s removal from the Prime Minister’s office in May, public disagreements between the two have intensified. Just this week, Sonko described the current political dynamic as a “cohabitation,” a term typically used to describe divided executive power in semi-presidential systems.
Analysts warn that the Council’s ruling could further strain relations between the two leaders, potentially reshaping the trajectory of Senegal’s political landscape. The clash over institutional reforms reflects deeper disagreements over governance, transparency, and the balance of power in the West African nation.
