Tensions Mount as Senegal Faces High-Stakes Legisl...

Tensions Mount as Senegal Faces High-Stakes Legislative Elections

Reuters- Senegal’s legislative elections on Sunday are critical in determining the government’s control over the National Assembly, which will influence its ability to advance key reforms.

The elections come at a precarious moment, as Senegal is grappling with a spiraling fiscal crisis that could hamper the government's ability to fulfill its economic promises. Tensions have risen in the run-up to the elections, with concerns of unrest similar to the violence seen during the presidential race in March.

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, known for his fiery rhetoric, has accused opponents of attacking his supporters and called for retaliation. While warning against mistaking the government's restraint for weakness, Sonko emphasized the readiness of his party to act if provoked.

Senegalese voters, over 7 million strong, will cast ballots for candidates vying for the 165-seat National Assembly. With inflation eroding living standards and youth unemployment growing, the top concerns for voters are jobs, affordable living, and economic stability.

"We want a lower cost of living, affordable water, electricity, and transport, so everyone can work and live decently," said Cheikh Diagne, a street seller in Dakar.

Historically, Senegalese voters have supported the president during parliamentary elections, helping them secure a majority in the National Assembly.

“Every time a president has won, he has in due course also gained an absolute majority in the National Assembly,” noted Babacar Ndiaye, research director at WATHI think tank.

However, the ruling party, Pastef, faces strong competition from an unexpected opposition alliance, which includes the Republic Party led by former Prime Minister Macky Sall. Smaller opposition coalitions, including one led by Dakar's mayor, Barthelemy Dias, have also clashed with Pastef supporters.

With the country teetering on the brink of a debt crisis—compounded by a budget deficit discovered to be far larger than previously reported—the election outcome will be pivotal for Senegal’s future.

The ruling party will need to secure a strong majority to advance its reform agenda while navigating the fiscal challenges ahead. Mariam Wane Ly, a former parliamentarian and women’s rights advocate, expressed optimism, predicting that Pastef would secure the majority it seeks, despite the dissatisfaction that has marred the campaign.