** National dialogue in Senegal: towards a strengthening of democracy? **
From May 28 to June 4, 2025, Senegal is the scene of a national dialogue bringing together around 800 participants, including representatives of political parties, civil society, academics and artists. This moment of consultation is perceived as a crucial opportunity to reflect on the measures that can strengthen the democratic foundations of the country, after several years of political tensions.
The Senegalese president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, opened this dialogue by stressing the importance of reconciliation and national unity. With statements affirming his commitment to respecting the rights of the opposition, he seems to establish a framework conducive to a real exchange of ideas. However, the success of this initiative will largely depend on the ability of the actors present to go beyond the cleavages that have marked the political scene in recent years.
### A panorama of democratic challenges
One of the major axes of discussions concerns the rationalization of political parties, a topical subject in a country which has around 386 parties for a population of around 18 million inhabitants. This figure may seem excessive and calls for questioning the effective representation brought by these multiple political parties. Anta Babacar Ngom, candidate for the last presidential election, expressed the need to structure the parties to involve them more effectively in economic and political debates, which could ultimately strengthen their legitimacy.
The functioning of the Constitutional Council is also at the heart of concerns. The proposal to transform it into a constitutional court, which would have more independence, raises essential questions on the separation of powers and the integrity of the judicial system. This could be a step towards a fair justice, a point that Amadou Ba also underlines, which evokes the need for absolute transparency in the courts.
### Justice as a pillar of political renewal
Justice plays an essential role in consolidating democracy. The concerns concerning the functioning of the High Court of Justice, which some consider too close to the current parliamentary majority, reflect a strong societal expectation for an impartial judicial system. This need for justice and transparency is all the more pressing in a context where allegations of corruption within the administration of former ministers emerge.
The work of the national dialogue, by approaching the question of justice, could offer the possibility of a constructive debate on the independence of judicial institutions in relation to the executive and legislative powers. Justice perceived as fair and fair is fundamental to strengthen citizens’ confidence in their institutions and promote a peaceful political culture.
### A collective dynamic for the future
Beyond political and judicial structures, the registration of civil society in this dialogue approach is indicative of a desire to include the often marginalized voices. Fadel Barro, founder of the Y’en in Marre movement, calls for a return to political serenity, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in times of calm, an opportunity that has not often been seized in the recent past of Senegal.
This raises an interesting question about the role of social movements and citizen organizations in the definition of the necessary reforms. The participation of various actors can enrich the debates and encourage proposals that really meet the expectations of citizens.
### Conclusion: a call for engagement
While this great national dialogue ventures in its last days, it is imperative that the recommendations which will be made do not remain a dead letter. For a real change to take place, a collective desire and a clear roadmap there must be set up. Senegal has an unprecedented opportunity to put a solid base for its democratic future, and each of the actors involved has a role to play.
The question remains now open: will national dialogue be the springboard of a real political transformation or will it remain a symbolic exercise without tangible consequences? The rest of the national community, and beyond, will be attentive to the results of these discussions which could draw the contours of a new political era for Senegal.