The FDR calls for the revocation of his seat as a deputy
The Front for the Defense of Democracy and the Republic (FDR) is formally challenging Ousmane Sonko’s presence within the National Assembly, insisting that his mandate as a deputy be cancelled. In a public statement released recently, the coalition argued that the legal mechanisms used to facilitate his return to the legislature conflict with both the Constitution and the Electoral Code, urging a national mobilization to protect republican institutions.
The FDR is intensifying its opposition regarding Ousmane Sonko’s status in parliament. The coalition’s leadership council maintains that the current head of the National Assembly is occupying his seat unlawfully and must step down. The FDR expressed satisfaction with the growing alliance of political parties, civic movements, and civil society members who have united against what they describe as a “parliamentary coup attempt” led by the Pastef party. They noted that 147 different political entities signed a declaration on May 24 to denounce the situation.
Furthermore, the coalition supports the initiative by opposition deputies to bring the matter before the Constitutional Council. This legal challenge aims to scrutinize the process that allowed Ousmane Sonko to reclaim his legislative seat after leaving his government position. The FDR’s primary legal argument centers on the interpretation of the Constitution and the Electoral Code regarding the mandates of government members. They cite Article LO172, which specifies that an elected deputy who joins the cabinet loses their parliamentary mandate if they do not resign from the government within eight days.
The FDR contends that Ousmane Sonko cannot rely on modifications made to the internal rules of the National Assembly to justify his return. According to the coalition, changes to parliamentary regulations cannot override organic laws, which are the only legal instruments qualified to dictate how a government member might return to the Assembly. They argue that this procedural shift is a direct violation of the nation’s fundamental laws. Consequently, the FDR is demanding the immediate annulment of the installation of Ousmane Sonko, asserting that he is legally ineligible to serve as a deputy.
Additionally, the FDR has dismissed claims made by the Pastef leader suggesting that the opposition’s legal challenge is a maneuver by the President of the Republic to sideline him. The coalition maintains that their struggle transcends partisan politics, focusing instead on the preservation of the Republic and its democratic integrity. They are calling on all national stakeholders to coordinate an action plan to halt what they perceive as a breach of the country’s institutional framework.
This firm stance from the FDR comes as the Constitutional Council prepares to rule on the validity of the contested provisions. The high court’s upcoming verdict is highly anticipated by both the ruling majority and the opposition, amidst a climate of significant tension regarding the legal boundaries between the executive and legislative branches.
