Senegal: Prime Minister’s candidacy validated for legislative elections
The Constitutional Council validates Ousmane Sonko’s candidacy
The Senegalese Constitutional Council confirmed this Thursday the candidacy of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko for the legislative elections of November 17, 2024, despite an appeal filed by the opposition. This decision comes as Sonko, imprisoned for more than seven months and prevented from participating in the presidential election of March 2024, was designated head of the list of his party, Pastef, for these legislative elections.
The opposition’s appeal dismissed
The opposition coalition Takku Wallu Senegal, led by former President Macky Sall, filed an appeal last week contesting Sonko’s eligibility. The opposition based its claim on his conviction in absentia in June 2023 to two years in prison in a morals case. However, the Constitutional Council ruled this appeal “inadmissible”. According to the “Sages”, only the Minister of the Interior or the competent authorities can refer the matter to the Council to rule on the ineligibility of a candidate, which was not the case in this situation.
Tense political context
Ousmane Sonko, a fierce opponent of Macky Sall, has been at the heart of political tensions in Senegal in recent years. These tensions have led to violence that has left dozens dead. After his long detention, Sonko is returning to the political scene with this candidacy, while his Pastef party remains influential within the opposition.
Other validated applications
In addition to Sonko’s, the candidacy of Barthélémy Dias, mayor of Dakar and another key opposition figure, was also validated by the Constitutional Council. Dias, convicted of homicide in 2011, also benefits from this opportunity to participate in the legislative elections.
Conclusion
The validation of Ousmane Sonko’s candidacy marks a turning point in the Senegalese political battle, as the legislative elections of November 2024 approach. This election promises to be decisive in the national political landscape, especially after years of confrontation between Sonko and former President Macky Sall.
