In a bold move targeting the heart of the current political landscape, opposition leader Ousmane Sonko has drawn direct parallels between the expected electoral decree and recent high-profile dismissals. Speaking to a roaring crowd in the heart of Ndiambour, Sonko emphasized the president’s unquestionable authority to issue such decrees, framing both actions as equally routine administrative measures.
« Selecting a new leader for the Port autonome de Dakar or replacing the head of the Caisse des dépôts et consignations are within the president’s prerogatives, and no one disputes that, » Sonko remarked. « Yet, just as these decisions were made through decrees, the date for the local elections must also be set by presidential decree. There is no room for ambiguity here. » His comments come shortly after Waly Diouf Bodiang was replaced at the Port autonome by Doune Pathé Mbengue and amid growing concerns over Fadilou Keïta’s unexpected removal from the Caisse des dépôts, despite his stated intent to remain in office.
The political arena remains tense as Sonko continues to rally against any postponement of the upcoming local elections. Since late July, when he launched his nationwide campaign to distribute voter cards, he has consistently warned against delays. Electoral expert Djibril Gningue has now issued a stark warning: the president has only a few critical days left to sign the necessary decree before the legal framework for holding the elections becomes unworkable.
The absence of a published electoral convocation decree has further amplified institutional friction between the executive and legislative branches. The president of the National Assembly’s public call for clarity underscores the deepening divide, as both branches navigate a high-stakes standoff with no resolution in sight.
