Sonko’s firm stance against delaying 2027 local elections in Senegal

Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly and leader of the PASTEF party, has firmly rejected any proposal to postpone the upcoming local elections scheduled for January 2027. His declaration comes amid growing speculation about potential delays following the presidential transition.

No room for election postponement, insists Sonko

Addressing concerns about a possible delay to the local elections, Sonko emphasized that such a move would be unacceptable, particularly in light of the sacrifices made to prevent the postponement of the presidential election. “Three lives were lost to ensure the presidential election took place on time,” he stated. “What justification could there possibly be for delaying the first election following President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s inauguration?”

He pointed out that the 2024 legislative elections were an exception, held after the dissolution of the National Assembly before the end of its term. The upcoming local elections, however, are part of the regular electoral calendar and must proceed as planned.

Elections must proceed in January 2027

“We will not accept excuses about lack of preparation,” Sonko declared. “When election day arrives, citizens must be called to vote. In January 2027, we must hold these elections.” He stressed that the elections cannot be postponed, as their date is legally mandated. “The revision of electoral lists should already be underway, yet it has not begun. We fought, and some paid the ultimate price, to prevent election delays. We cannot allow maneuvers to push them further.”

PASTEF’s electoral momentum

The PASTEF leader expressed confidence in his party’s growing support, citing the ongoing sale of voter registration cards as a key indicator of future electoral performance. “The results of the card sales already give us an idea of the outcome before the vote even takes place,” he explained. “This process serves as an excellent barometer of our electoral strength.”

Sonko’s unwavering position underscores the importance of adhering to the electoral calendar and ensuring that democratic processes remain uninterrupted in Senegal.