Ousmane Sonko’s shifting stance on Senegal’s constitutional council

In a striking turn of events, Ousmane Sonko, leader of Senegal’s Pastef party, has reversed his earlier position regarding the decisions of the Constitutional Council. Just days after urging respect for the institution’s rulings, Sonko delivered a sharply critical speech that starkly contrasted with his previous statements.

During a recent visit to Touba, Sonko inaugurated the new headquarters of his party, where he addressed a crowd of supporters. In his remarks, he openly condemned the latest decision by the seven-member Constitutional Council, which had struck down a parliamentary bill aimed at expanding the legislature’s powers while curtailing those of the presidency.

From support to skepticism

A mere week prior, Sonko had publicly endorsed the Constitutional Council’s authority, emphasizing the importance of institutional balance in Senegal’s democracy. He had declared, « This decision is binding on all! (…) In a democracy, when institutions operate within their designated roles, no crisis can arise. » His words reflected a commitment to the rule of law and the separation of powers.

Yet, at the Touba gathering, Sonko adopted a markedly different tone. He accused the Council of overstepping its mandate, arguing that its rulings were increasingly favoring the president’s agenda. « The Constitutional Council cannot dictate that lawmakers must pass laws solely to please the president. What is happening in this country is deeply concerning, » he asserted.

A pattern of contention

Sonko also criticized the frequent recourse to the Constitutional Council by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. « The president refers cases to the Council almost weekly, » he noted, suggesting a systematic use of the institution to advance executive interests. His comments hinted at a growing unease with the judiciary’s perceived alignment with presidential authority.