Senegal opposition challenges sonko’s parliamentary reinstatement before constitutional council
A coalition of opposition lawmakers has formally petitioned the Constitutional Council of Senegal, seeking to invalidate the National Assembly’s decision to reinstate Ousmane Sonko as a deputy. The move follows a contentious May 24, 2026 resolution by the Assembly’s Bureau, which restored his parliamentary mandate despite prior constitutional concerns.
The lawmakers argue that Sonko’s reinstatement—subsequently followed by his election as Assembly President on May 26—violates the principle of separation of powers and the Constitution’s Article 54, which prohibits dual mandates. They contend that Sonko’s retention of government office after being elected deputy in 2024 should have automatically forfeited his parliamentary seat under the applicable legal framework at the time.
Direct obstruction of transparency
In their formal complaint, the deputies highlight an unprecedented refusal by Assembly officials to provide critical documents required for their legal challenge. Despite formal summons from a court bailiff, the Secretary-General and First Vice-President of the National Assembly withheld the reinstatement decree and the May 26 plenary session minutes. These documents, which are public records by law, were blocked under unclear circumstances, further undermining parliamentary transparency and the rights of elected representatives.
The opposition bloc stresses that the Constitutional Council must intervene decisively to halt what they describe as a constitutional breach that threatens the integrity of the legislative body. Their petition underscores a broader commitment to upholding Senegal’s constitutional order, asserting that no parliamentary majority, regardless of size, may override the supremacy of the Republic’s fundamental law.
Legal battle enters decisive phase
The signatories to the petition include prominent lawmakers from across the opposition spectrum, who collectively demand an immediate review of the Assembly’s decision. Among them are:
- Daouda Dia
- Aïssata Ousmane Diallo
- Amadou Diallo
- Raqui Diallo
- Mamadou Diaw
- Salimata Diop Dieng
- Mbaye Dione
- Thérèse Faye
- Barane Fofana
- Cheikh Omar Hann
- Birima Mangara
- Abdou Mbow
- Fabineta Ndiaye
- Anta Babacar Ngom
- Thierno Alassane Sall
- Maguette Sène
- Abdoulaye Sylla
- Tafsir Thioye
