### Ousmane Sonko in the National Assembly: between firmness and promise of listening
The recent passage of Ousmane Sonko, Prime Minister of Senegal, before the National Assembly, aroused echoes both in the ranks of the opposition and among the population. Indeed, this question session, marked by the boycott of 26 of the 35 opposition deputies, offers interesting lighting on current tensions within the Senegalese political scene. In an already busy climate, the head of government tried to sail between the affirmation of his position and the need for constructive dialogue.
#### A tense context
Since last November legislative elections, the Senegalese political landscape seems to have gained polarization. The opposition boycott during this session questions the consequences of a dynamic such as this. Can we really talk about a constructive exchange when one of the main parliamentary blocks refuses to participate in the debate? This raises questions about democratic commitment to Senegal. Is this a sign of an opposition in crisis, or a strategy aimed at highlighting dysfunctions perceived within the executive?
#### Freedom of expression or public danger?
During exchanges, the question of freedom of expression was raised. Ousmane Sonko, although pleading in favor of this fundamental freedom, insisted on the need to control the spread of false news. This position can be interpreted in different ways: on the one hand, it aims to protect the power of the state and public life from potential abuses; On the other, it raises fears about a possible authoritarian drift. By affirming a line of “zero tolerance” in the face of disinformation, could the Prime Minister involuntarily create a climate of distrust with regard to critical votes?
### The issue of layoffs
Another major concern raised during debates concerns dismissals in the public sector, which would be up since the coming to power of Pastef, the Sonko party. The Prime Minister’s response, who invites those who are unjustly considering ousted to turn to justice, presents a certain ambiguity. On the one hand, highlighting the legality may reassure; On the other hand, referring each dismissal to an individual question may give the impression that the government is delighted with any collective responsibility. This remains to be clarified to appease fears of workers and unions.
#### Promises of economic responsibility
In a more reassuring tone, Ousmane Sonko addressed economic issues, ensuring that Senegal would be able to restore public finances by better tax collection and a reduction in tax exemptions granted to foreign companies. These statements deserve to be examined with attention. The fight against tax fraud and a more equitable tax framework could actually serve the interests of the state. Nevertheless, the question remains: how does the government plans to implement these changes without harming the economic attractiveness of the country?
### Citizen listening to envisage
Finally, the announcements concerning the implementation of a green number to report price abuses on basic necessities, as well as the recruitment of volunteers to monitor the market, aim to strengthen the link between the executive and the population. These measures could improve transparency and empower economic players. That said, it would be relevant to wonder if effective monitoring of these initiatives will be established to guarantee their success.
### Conclusion
It clearly appears that the passage of Ousmane Sonko to the National Assembly illustrates the complex challenges that Senegal faces both political and economic level. The promises of listening and firmness must be accompanied by an open dialogue and a desire to build bridges between the opposition and the government. Collective responsibility, the protection of freedom of expression, and a real commitment to the economy are essential tags that would benefit from being prioritized to appease tensions and strengthen solidarity within the nation. This requires a concerted effort of all political actors to guarantee a seinegal and prosperous Senegal.