Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has dissolved the opposition-dominated parliament, setting the stage for early elections just six months after his anti-establishment victory.
Faye announced the dissolution on Thursday evening, citing difficulties in working with the parliament due to their refusal to discuss the budget law and their resistance to efforts aimed at dismantling wasteful government institutions.
In his brief address, Faye explained, “I will dissolve the National Assembly to seek institutional methods from independent citizens to implement the systemic reforms I promised.”
The upcoming elections are scheduled for November 17.
Political observers anticipate that Faye’s party, PASTEF (African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics, and Fraternity), is likely to secure a majority given its strong popularity and
The substantial margin of victory in the March presidential election, where Faye won with 54 percent of the vote.
The opposition coalition, Benno Bokk Yaakar, led by former President Macky Sall, has condemned Faye’s decision.
They have accused him of using legal pretexts to justify the dissolution and labeled his actions as deceitful.
At 44, Faye became Africa’s youngest leader after winning the presidential election in March, shortly after his release from prison.
His ascent reflects widespread frustration among Senegal’s youth, a sentiment common across Africa, where leaders are often criticized for clinging to power for extended periods.
During his campaign, Faye promised significant reforms aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Senegalese.
His proposed reforms included combating corruption, revising foreign fishing permits, and ensuring that a larger portion of the country’s natural resources benefit local residents.
However, six months into his presidency, these commitments have yet to be realized.
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