Senegal President Faye considers postponing local elections

Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has indicated that he does not rule out postponing local elections, provided such a decision is reached through consensus. In recent interviews, Faye stated that he wishes to avoid a state of ‘permanent electoral obsession,’ noting that the Supreme Court has ruled that local elections can be held anytime until the end of 2027.

The presidential administration is currently navigating a complex institutional landscape. Following a rupture with the Pastef party and Ousmane Sonko on May 22, 2026, Faye no longer holds a parliamentary majority. This shift comes amid discussions regarding institutional reforms and the potential for merging legislative and local elections, a matter he has referred to the Constitutional Council for an opinion.

Political tensions remain high as the executive and the National Assembly navigate shifting power dynamics. While the President prioritizes economic discussions with the IMF to restore investor confidence, the uncertainty surrounding the electoral calendar and the influence of the Assembly continues to shape the country’s political trajectory.