On Monday, June 29, 2026, all 129 deputies present at the Senegalese National Assembly unanimously voted to adopt a constitutional revision project. The proposed reforms, championed by the Pastef party, seek to redefine presidential prerogatives while expanding the authority of both the Parliament and the office of the Prime Minister.
Legislative changes and the path to referendum
The constitutional amendment aims to recalibrate the balance of power within the Senegalese government. By strengthening the legislative branch and the head of government, the proposal marks a significant shift in the country’s institutional framework. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has opted to submit this text to a national referendum, a decision that has sparked debate regarding whether the move serves as a democratic consultation or a tactical political maneuver.
Did You Know? The constitutional revision project was passed with a unanimous vote from the 129 deputies who were present in the legislative chamber on June 29, 2026.
Political tensions and accusations of bias
The reform has met with skepticism from various political quarters. Members of the President’s own coalition, alongside several opposition parties, have publicly alleged that the constitutional changes are designed specifically to benefit Ousmane Sonko, the ex-Premier ministre and president of the National Assembly.
Expert Insight: The unanimous vote by the 129 deputies underscores the current dominance of the legislative agenda, yet the subsequent push for a referendum suggests the executive branch is seeking broader public legitimacy to navigate the internal political tensions surrounding the bill’s perceived beneficiaries.
What happens next?
With the legislative phase concluded, the focus shifts to the upcoming referendum. Citizens will be tasked with deciding the fate of the constitutional amendments. The outcome of this vote could determine the long-term influence of the National Assembly president and the future relationship between the executive and legislative branches of the Senegalese government.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the constitutional revision?
The revision aims to increase the powers of the Parliament and the Prime Minister, while simultaneously redefining the powers held by the President of the Republic.
Why is there opposition to the reform?
Critics, including parts of the President’s own coalition and opposition parties, argue that the reforms are tailored specifically to serve the interests of Ousmane Sonko.
How was the reform approved in the National Assembly?
The project was adopted unanimously by the 129 deputies who were present in the assembly on June 29, 2026.
How will the public’s participation in the upcoming referendum alter the political landscape in Senegal?
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