Senegal’s RTS 1 sparks outrage by excluding Sonko from constitutional debate coverage

The public broadcaster RTS 1 has once again come under fire in Senegal following its decision to withhold live coverage of the parliamentary session examining the constitutional revision bill. The move has ignited fierce debate about media accountability and editorial choices in the country.

Public outcry over selective media coverage

On June 29, 2026, RTS 1 faced immediate backlash when it opted not to televise the plenary session on the proposed constitutional reform, law no. 17/2026. Social media erupted with criticism, as users questioned why a significant institutional event was excluded from public broadcast.

The controversy deepened as observers noted the absence of coverage for key political figures, particularly Ousmane Sonko, whose interventions often dominate national discourse. Comments on platform X (formerly Twitter) reflected widespread frustration, with some users accusing the channel of partisan editorial decisions.

Media credibility under scrutiny

The decision has intensified discussions about the role of public television in shaping national narratives. Critics argue that selective reporting undermines public trust, while others see it as a symptom of broader political tensions in Senegal’s media landscape.

Messages on social platforms ranged from disappointment to outright condemnation, with phrases like “no longer a surprise” and “institutional neglect” dominating the discourse. Many questioned whether such choices reflect a deliberate strategy to marginalize certain voices in national debates.