The recently adopted legislation modifies civil rights deprivation provisions, introducing a five-year restoration window following sentence completion and incorporating retroactive measures. This legislative shift creates a potential pathway for Sonko’s candidacy in the upcoming presidential race.
Exclusion from 2024 election
Sonko, who currently serves as Prime Minister, was barred from the 2024 presidential contest after a Supreme Court confirmation of his defamation conviction. The ruling party, Pastef, subsequently nominated Bassirou Diomaye Faye as its candidate, who went on to win the election.
Internal party tensions
The electoral reform has sparked significant divisions within Pastef. Close allies of Sonko recently accused President Faye of attempting to block the legislation, fueling speculation about emerging rivalries ahead of the 2029 election.
Political landscape shifts
Despite his 2024 ineligibility, Sonko was elected to parliament in the legislative elections before resigning his seat to retain his prime ministerial position. His supporters now argue that this sequence confirms his future eligibility under the new legal framework.
