Ousmane sonko predicts major electoral defeat for Senegal’s ruling power

The debate surrounding a potential dissolution of Senegal’s National Assembly continues to dominate the nation’s political discourse. During a Pastef rally held this Saturday in Linguère, Ousmane Sonko articulated his clear stance on this hypothetical scenario, simultaneously issuing a direct challenge to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

According to the Pastef leader, dissolving the National Assembly and subsequently holding early legislative elections would prove detrimental to the current administration. He expressed absolute certainty that his political movement would emerge as the decisive victor in such a contest.

“Should he organize local elections, we will defeat him. If he dissolves the Assembly, it will be even worse for him. And that, in fact, is what we prefer. Because we will soundly beat him,” Sonko declared emphatically.

Ousmane Sonko went further, contemplating the possibility that the head of state could face significant political weakening following an electoral loss.

“Afterward, I even fear he might throw in the towel before 2029,” he added.

Sonko urges supporters to remain calm

Beyond the electoral outlook, the president of Pastef also appealed to his supporters to exercise vigilance and restraint. He specifically advised them against falling victim to potential provocations.

Ousmane Sonko believes that certain actors might be attempting to incite reactions from his party’s militants to justify taking measures against Pastef.

“I call on everyone for vigilance and calm. Because they are currently looking for ways to provoke Pastef so that the youth react, allowing them to dissolve the party and revoke its registration,” he affirmed.

For the Pastef leader, if his militants successfully navigate provocations and maintain their mobilization, upcoming electoral challenges could turn overwhelmingly in favor of his camp, which he characterized as a “mere walk in the park.”