Senegal’s 2027 local elections face uncertainty over missing presidential decree

With seven months left before municipal and departmental elections slated for January 2027, Senegal has not yet issued the presidential decree required to convene the electorate. Interior Minister Bamba Cissé reiterated that the vote date cannot be set without the decree, and the revision of voter lists has not begun. Civil‑society groups, notably NGO‑3D director Moundiaye Cissé, criticize the silence, warning that it creates a “rupture of equality between political actors when only the presidential camp holds information on the electoral calendar.” They oppose any postponement and demand transparency. Past delays in the 2022 local elections increase opposition fears. Former interior minister Mouhamadou Bamba Cissé told parliament the state is within legal timelines and technical preparations are under way. The ruling party PASTEF‑Les Patriotes also called for respect of the constitutional electoral calendar. The lack of official information is fueling speculation and could undermine confidence in Senegal’s democratic process.