In a decisive declaration, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly, has firmly rejected any possibility of postponing Senegal’s upcoming local elections scheduled for January 2027. His stance comes after three lives were lost to prevent an earlier postponement of presidential elections, reinforcing his commitment to electoral integrity.
Opposition to Election Postponement
Ousmane Sonko addressed growing speculations about the potential delay of local elections, emphasizing the gravity of such a decision. « We must remember that three lives were lost to prevent the postponement of the presidential election, » he stated. « Then, why would the first election after President Diomaye Faye’s inauguration face delay? The 2024 legislative elections were an exception, held following the dissolution of the National Assembly before the end of its term. »
Strict Adherence to Electoral Calendar
The leader of the PASTEF party underscored that the 2027 local elections are firmly anchored in Senegal’s electoral calendar, unlike the 2024 legislative elections. « We will not accept any claims of unpreparedness, » he declared. « When election day arrives, citizens must be called to vote. By January 2027, we must proceed with elections. »
Sonko pointed out that postponement is legally untenable, as the elections are mandated by law. « The revision of electoral lists should already be underway, but it hasn’t started. We fought to prevent election delays, and some paid the ultimate price. We cannot tolerate any maneuvers to postpone them now, » he asserted.
Electoral Campaign Insights
Expressing confidence in his party’s prospects, Sonko highlighted the ongoing sale of voter cards as a strong indicator of PASTEF’s electoral strength. « The results of the voter card sales already give us insight into the outcome before voting even occurs, » he explained. « This process serves as an excellent gauge of our electoral support. »
