Fatshimetrie: The stakes of the constitutional revision in Senegal
This Monday, September 2, in Senegal, deputies are at the heart of a political battle of capital importance: the revision of the Constitution. A bill introduced by the government of Bassirou Diomaye Faye is on the agenda, despite its prior rejection by the Law Commission. If the deputies do not approve this revision, it could lead to the dissolution of the National Assembly and early legislative elections, with potential repercussions on the vote on the State budget.
The expert in Democracy, Elections and Governance, Ndiaga Sylla, underlines the urgency of this situation. According to him, holding early legislative elections from mid-November is the only viable solution to ensure the proper functioning of the institutions. Indeed, a new National Assembly will have to be set up quickly to ensure the adoption of the budget before the end of 2024.
In this tense context, Senegalese civil society is calling for an inclusive dialogue between the different political actors. It is essential to find a consensus on sensitive issues such as reducing the deadlines and conditions for collecting sponsorship for candidates in early elections. However, this request for compromise risks giving rise to disagreements between the opposition and the government in place.
Moundiaye Cisse, from the NGO 3 D, highlights the need for a consensus to resolve this political impasse. Given the legal vacuum surrounding the dissolution of the National Assembly, it is imperative that all stakeholders agree on the steps to follow to ensure the institutional stability of the country. This could require adjustments to the existing legislative framework and a common will to overcome political differences.
Thus, Senegal finds itself at a decisive crossroads in its political history. The responsibility of policy makers and civil society actors is immense, as their choices will have a major impact on the democratic future of the country. It is essential that the voice of the people be heard and that national interests prevail over partisan interests. Only a consensual and constructive approach can guarantee a peaceful and democratic political transition in Senegal.