Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – The President of Pastef, Ousmane Sonko, urged his party’s deputies, who now hold the majority in the National Assembly, to “earn the trust of the Senegalese people.” According to Sonko, the National Assembly must serve as the “lung of the democratic life of a country,” urging lawmakers to prioritize their responsibilities to the nation over partisan interests.

“I urge each of Pastef’s deputies to never forget why they were elected to the National Assembly,” Sonko stated during the closing ceremony of a training workshop for the newly elected deputies. He added, “I believe the deputies present here understand the issues and will always stand with the Senegalese people.”

The event, held on Sunday, marked the conclusion of a seminar organized for the incoming legislative majority following the November 17 elections. The training modules introduced the deputies to essential parliamentary functions, including the installation of the Assembly’s office, finance laws, and the role of the High Court of Justice. Sonko underscored the significance of such preparations, highlighting the pivotal role of the Assembly in fostering democracy.

“Regardless of the political differences between the executive power and the legislature, a deputy is, above all, a representative of the people,” Sonko noted, stressing the importance of collaboration without compromising the Assembly’s autonomy.

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko outlined the responsibilities of the 15th legislature, including acting as a potential counterbalance to the executive branch while also supporting the implementation of public policies through legislative action. Key priorities identified include passing the initial finance law by December 31 and expediting numerous other pre-prepared legislative projects.

Sonko reiterated that this new legislature must bridge the gap between the Senegalese people and their parliamentary representatives. “The challenge for the 15th legislature is to reconcile the people with the parliamentary body,” he asserted, calling on deputies to ensure transparency, accountability, and impactful governance.

As Senegal enters a new phase of its political journey, the leadership of Pastef in the Assembly could shape the trajectory of democratic growth and public trust in the nation’s institutions.