Senegal’s constitutional council blocks reform law: Sonko responds

The President of Senegal’s National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko, has acknowledged the Constitutional Council’s ruling declaring the recently passed constitutional reform law unconstitutional. In a statement, the leader of the Pastef party accepted the decision of the so-called ‘Seven Sages’, emphasizing that their ruling applies to everyone without exception.

Sonko’s remarks came in response to the Council’s verdict, which sparked debate over the legal and political implications of the reform. However, he made it clear that the decision stands as final. ‘Regardless of the interpretations that may follow, one truth remains unchanged: this ruling is binding for all,’ he declared in a public statement.

Institutional balance and legislative continuity

Highlighting the importance of Senegal’s institutional framework, Sonko stressed that when each branch of government fulfills its constitutional duties within its defined scope, crises can be avoided. He framed the Council’s intervention as a demonstration of the system’s checks and balances, reinforcing public trust in democratic processes.

The National Assembly, he affirmed, remains committed to its legislative role. ‘We will continue to fulfill our mandate without fail,’ Sonko stated. ‘Laws will be debated, amended, or rejected as necessary to honor our commitments to the Senegalese people—our resilient and dignified citizens.’