Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal has taken a decisive step in his presidency by dissolving the National Assembly and scheduling new legislative elections for November 17, 2024.
In a televised address to the nation on Thursday, September 12, 2024, President Faye justified his decision by accusing the current parliamentary majority of obstructing his administration’s efforts and working against the will of the people. The move marks a significant political shift in Senegal and sets the stage for an intense electoral period.
Faye’s Accusations Against the Parliamentary Majority
President Faye, who came to power last March with promises of substantial reform and change, launched a fierce critique against the parliamentary majority, particularly the Benno Bokk Yakaar (BBY) coalition, which has dominated the National Assembly since the 2022 legislative elections. He accused them of “systematic obstruction” and undermining his government’s initiatives. Among his grievances were the refusal to organize a budget debate, the rejection of a proposed constitutional reform, and what he described as the “usurpation of presidential prerogatives.”
“Coexistence has become impossible with an Assembly that is the last obstructive vestige of the fallen regime,” President Faye stated, reflecting his frustration over what he sees as a continuation of old guard politics that conflict with his vision for Senegal.
Legal Basis for Dissolution
The dissolution of the Assembly was enacted under Article 87 of the Senegalese Constitution, which grants the president the power to dissolve the parliament under certain circumstances. By invoking this article, President Faye has not only dissolved the current Assembly but has also ended the term of the deputies of the 14th legislature, sparking controversy and debate across the political spectrum.
Reaction from the Benno Bokk Yakaar (BBY) Coalition
The BBY coalition, which finds itself ousted from legislative power, expressed outrage over the president’s decision. Abdou Mbow, President of the BBY parliamentary group, condemned the dissolution as a “betrayal” and accused President Faye of undermining democratic institutions. BBY’s statement highlighted that the timing of the dissolution coincided with an extraordinary parliamentary session and was announced just before a general policy statement that President Faye himself had convened.
The coalition argues that this move was a strategic ploy to avoid a no-confidence motion that the parliamentary majority had intended to present. “This is a clear distortion of our democratic processes,” Mbow asserted, emphasizing the potential consequences for Senegal’s democratic stability.
What’s at Stake for Senegal?
The dissolution of the National Assembly and the call for new elections signal a critical juncture for Senegal. President Faye’s actions suggest a bold attempt to reshape the legislative landscape to align more closely with his reformist agenda. However, this approach is not without risks. By dissolving the Assembly, Faye has effectively pushed the country into a period of heightened political uncertainty, with both supporters and opponents gearing up for what promises to be a fiercely contested election in November.
This development also raises broader questions about the balance of power within Senegal’s political system. President Faye’s decision could either reinforce his mandate for change or backfire, leading to political fragmentation and instability. The upcoming elections will therefore not only be a test of President Faye’s leadership but also a referendum on the country’s political future and the sustainability of its democratic institutions.
Potential Impact on Governance and Reform
With the BBY coalition and other political factions rallying their bases ahead of the November elections, the dissolution has already set the stage for an intense period of campaigning. At stake are the future direction of governance, the potential for constitutional and institutional reforms, and the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.
Observers and international partners will be closely monitoring the unfolding events, assessing the implications for democratic governance in Senegal, a country often seen as a beacon of stability in a turbulent region. The coming weeks will be critical as Senegal navigates this political crossroads, where the outcome of the elections could redefine the nation’s political landscape for years to come.
