Pastef, the ruling party in Senegal, proclaimed a “large victory” in the early legislative elections held on Sunday, November 17, 2024. A political turning point under the presidency of Bassirou Diomaye Faye. This vote, the first electoral test since his accession to power, aimed to renew the 165 seats in the National Assembly for a five-year mandate. Pending provisional official results, a recomposition of the political space is already underway.
In a press release released shortly after the closing of polls, the government spokesperson said that Pastef expected a comfortable majority, based on the partial results compiled by the party. “This election testifies to popular support for our vision and our reforms for a new Senegal,” he declared, promising to strengthen the stability and governance of the country.
Voter disillusionment?
These legislative elections took place in a tense political context, with the emergence of opposition coalitions determined to challenge the power in place. Among them, Yewwi Askan Wi and Wallu Senegal have led dynamic campaigns, denouncing what they consider to be authoritarian abuses and calling for an institutional rebalancing.
However, according to local observers, the participation rate remained moderate, hovering around 50%. Which reflects a certain disillusionment among voters in the face of unfulfilled political promises. This abstention could also have influenced the results in favor of Pastef, whose supporters seem to have mobilized en masse.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, former secretary general of Pastef and successor to Macky Sall, had called these early elections to consolidate his parliamentary majority, necessary for the implementation of his economic and social reforms. His presidency comes in a period marked by economic challenges linked to inflation and growing public debt.
Recomposition of the Senegalese political space
The first provisional official results are expected on Tuesday, November 19, but voices within the opposition are already contesting Pastef’s claims. Some political leaders have cited irregularities in several constituencies. They threaten to file appeals with the Constitutional Council.
Pastef, founded by Ousmane Sonko, still benefits from the popularity of its former leader, despite the controversies and legal proceedings that marked his political career. The electoral campaign largely highlighted his political heritage and his speech in favor of national sovereignty.
If Pastef’s victory is confirmed, it could open the way to a restructuring of the Senegalese political space. The parliament has until now been in the hands of the old regime. The opposition will have to rethink its strategies and strengthen its alliances to remain relevant in the political landscape. Senegal, often considered an example of democracy in West Africa, is now carefully awaiting the official results.
Related News :