Senegal's Pastef party advances constitutional reform as political tensions rise

The parliamentary group Pastef les Patriotes presented a constitutional amendment (bill 17/2026) aiming to rebalance executive, legislative and judicial powers in Senegal. The draft proposes a new preamble emphasizing African identity and sovereignty, transforms the Constitutional Council into a nine‑member Constitutional Court, expands parliamentary inquiry powers and strengthens civil liberties such as press and assembly freedoms.

Party officials also criticised moves by majority MPs, labeling a proposed constitutional revision a "parliamentary blackmail" that serves personal interests rather than democratic strengthening. Aldiouma Sow denounced the initiative as clan‑driven and urged colleagues to reject it.

Separately, Pastef leaders called for greater unity after the dismissal of Ousmane Sonko from the premiership, urging the party to maintain its parliamentary majority and strengthen ties with unions and local communities. In a local ceremony in Malika, Apolinaire Amadou Diatta highlighted community projects and the party’s role in fostering social cohesion.

Together, these actions reflect Pastef’s push for institutional reforms while navigating internal political challenges and grassroots engagement.