Senegal’s constitutional reform to go to referendum amid political tensions
Photo illustration © AP – Mosa’ab Elshamy
The Senegalese president Bassirou Diomaye Faye has confirmed plans to put the ongoing constitutional reform proposal to a national referendum, should it secure parliamentary approval. This initiative, championed by the ruling majority, seeks to redistribute institutional powers and notably curb presidential prerogatives.
The announcement was made on Monday, June 29 by Justice Minister Moussa Sarr during a session at the National Assembly. According to him, the head of state has instructed the Assembly president of his decision to invoke Article 103 of the Constitution, which provides for the submission of constitutional amendments to a popular vote.
Restructuring Senegal’s institutional balance
The draft reform aims to reshape Senegal’s institutional framework by enhancing the roles of all state branches. It proposes a clearer delineation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, effectively reducing some of the traditionally concentrated presidential authorities.
A reform amid leadership divisions
While the constitutional changes are backed by the parliamentary majority aligned with Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko—whose party holds a dominant position in the Assembly—they emerge in a climate of escalating tensions between Senegal’s two top leaders.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko, once steadfast political allies, rose to power following the March 2024 presidential election, which marked a historic political shift in the country. However, recent months have seen growing disagreements between the two figures on multiple critical issues, raising concerns about the cohesion at the highest level of government.
By opting for a referendum, President Faye aims to bypass potential parliamentary gridlock and seek direct validation from Senegalese citizens. The upcoming vote will determine the fate of a proposal presented by its proponents as a pivotal step toward a more balanced and modernized governance structure in Senegal.
