Sonko warns power will face crushing defeat in Senegal assembly dissolution

Political tensions in the Sénégal continue to escalate as speculation grows over the potential dissolution of the National Assembly. During a recent gathering of the Pastef party in Linguère, the movement’s leader, Ousmane Sonko, delivered a bold statement, directly challenging President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s political strategy.

The debate surrounding an assembly dissolution—and the possibility of early legislative elections—has dominated recent political discourse. Sonko made it clear that such a move would backfire for the ruling power, asserting that his party would emerge victorious in any snap polls.

Sonko predicts landslide victory for Pastef in early elections

In a defiant tone, Sonko declared that whether local elections are held or the Assembly is dissolved, his party would secure a decisive win. His remarks leave little room for doubt: « If they organize local elections, we will defeat them. If they dissolve the Assembly, it will only make things worse for them—and that’s exactly what we want, because we will crush them.»

He even went further, suggesting that a major electoral setback could weaken President Faye’s position before his term ends in 2029. « I wouldn’t be surprised if he steps down before then, » he added.

Call for restraint among Pastef supporters

Beyond electoral strategy, Sonko issued a stern warning to his party’s activists, urging them to remain composed and avoid falling into traps set by political opponents. He warned that certain forces were actively trying to provoke Pastef’s supporters into reacting, creating pretexts to dissolve the party or revoke its registration.

« I call on everyone to stay vigilant and calm, » Sonko emphasized. « They are actively seeking ways to provoke Pastef so that our youth react, giving them an excuse to disband the party and withdraw its certificate. »

He concluded by framing the upcoming elections as a « walk in the park » for his party, provided its members resist provocations and maintain strong mobilization.