During a rally in Dahra Djoloff last Saturday, Ousmane Sonko, President of Senegal’s National Assembly, delivered a sharp critique of what he describes as the re-emergence of entrenched political practices within the presidential establishment. Addressing a packed crowd of activists, he emphasized that no member of the Pastef party could have anticipated betrayal from longtime allies once in power.
From promises to power: Sonko’s warning against political backsliding
Sonko framed his remarks as a defense of the initial project’s core values—transparency, accountability, good governance, and fair resource management—which he insists were meant to break from past failures. « This isn’t about individuals, » he declared. « It’s about honoring the commitments we made to the Senegalese people: upholding justice, ensuring proper administration, and renegotiating our resources responsibly. »
His most striking accusation, however, targeted the alleged restructuring of the political system under current leadership. « The very system we fought against has reorganized itself within the Palace, » he asserted, accusing it of reverting to old, self-serving habits. « It’s betraying our vision—and the people deserve better. »
Institutions vs. the people: a democratic imbalance?
Sonko challenged the legitimacy of a government he claims relies more on state institutions than popular support. « President Diomaye may control the institutions, » he said, « but in a democracy, sovereignty belongs solely to the people—not to bureaucratic structures. » His implication? A leadership disconnected from the electorate may compensate by leveraging state machinery to consolidate power.
He also raised alarms over attempts to influence Senegal’s highest judicial bodies. « There are maneuvers underway, » Sonko warned, « to bend the Supreme Court and Constitutional Council to serve a narrow agenda. » For him, this move epitomizes the Palace’s six-year regression from the reformist promises that once defined the current administration.
