Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Party Claims Victory in Parliamentary Elections

Senegal’s ruling party, Pastef, has claimed a significant victory in Sunday’s parliamentary elections, with most votes already counted. The win is expected to grant President Bassirou Diomaye Faye a strong mandate to push forward his radical economic and social reforms, which were central to his presidential campaign earlier this year.

Faye’s Party Claims “Large Majority” Amid Parliamentary Challenges

The Senegalese government, through spokesman Amadou Moustapha Ndieck Sarre, celebrated the victory, which it says will allow Pastef to solidify its control over the National Assembly. Despite the lack of an official seat count, the ruling party is optimistic about securing the necessary 83 seats in the 165-seat parliament to form a majority.

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President Faye, elected in March 2024 as Africa’s youngest (elected) president at 44 years old, has campaigned on a platform of economic reform, social justice, and anti-corruption measures. However, his ability to implement his agenda has been hindered by an opposition-dominated parliament, which led to the dissolution of the National Assembly in September and the call for snap elections.

A Platform for Change and International Ambitions

Faye’s administration is focused on restructuring Senegal’s political and economic systems. His party’s ambitious platform includes rethinking Senegal’s relationship with France, its former coloniser, as well as diversifying the country’s international partnerships, particularly in the energy sector. One of the key reforms promises to increase Senegal’s share of profits from its natural resources, including fishing permits for foreign companies.

Faye’s campaign has resonated strongly with Senegal’s youth, who are struggling with high unemployment and rising inflation. The country’s young population, over 60% of which is under 25, has increasingly grown disillusioned with traditional politics, and Faye’s anti-establishment rhetoric has gained significant support.

Opposition Concedes Defeat

Despite sporadic clashes and tensions in the run-up to the election, the opposition has conceded defeat. Former President Macky Sall, Prime Minister Amadou Ba, and Dakar Mayor Barthelemy Dias—who led different opposition coalitions—accepted the results, which sets the stage for Faye’s second term. The government’s spokesman thanked the Senegalese people for their overwhelming support, reflecting a sense of pride in the peaceful process.

Tensions and Election Delays

The road to these elections has been far from smooth. Faye’s rise was accompanied by violence and political unrest, as both he and his political mentor, Ousmane Sonko, faced imprisonment on charges widely seen as politically motivated. The unrest led to violent protests, which saw dozens killed and hundreds imprisoned.

Sonko, who was barred from running for president due to legal issues, was appointed Prime Minister by Faye in an attempt to push forward their shared vision for radical reform. The pair’s political alliance has led to significant public support, though the opposition remains vocal about the government’s handling of these issues.

Economic Concerns and Challenges Ahead

Despite the political victory, Faye’s government is facing significant economic challenges. Senegal’s public finances have come under scrutiny after it was revealed that the country’s budget deficit was larger than previously reported. A $1.9 billion IMF loan program is currently on hold as the government reviews the nation’s finances.

Analysts warn that the country’s debt crisis could hamper the new government’s ability to implement reforms. Furthermore, inflation has strained the daily lives of many Senegalese citizens, adding pressure to Faye’s administration to deliver tangible results.

The Road Ahead

The parliamentary victory positions Faye to push through his reform agenda, but the challenges are far from over. He will need to address the economic struggles that have plagued the country, while maintaining stability in the face of potential opposition from both domestic and international actors.

Despite the challenges, Senegal’s peaceful election process stands as a testament to the country’s relatively stable democracy, especially in a region that has seen a rise in military coups and unrest. As Faye moves forward with his mandate, he faces the dual task of implementing his ambitious reforms while navigating the complexities of Senegal’s economy and its international relationships.