Ousmane Sonko has addressed growing speculation about a potential postponement of the upcoming local elections. The PASTEF president’s response was unequivocal: “We must remember that three people sacrificed their lives to prevent the postponement of the presidential election.

So, what justification exists today for postponing the first election held after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye took office? The 2024 legislative elections were not part of the normal electoral calendar—they followed the dissolution of the National Assembly before its term ended.”

In contrast, Sonko emphasized that the 2027 local elections are firmly inscribed in the electoral calendar. “We will not accept excuses about anyone not being prepared. When election day arrives, the people must vote. By January 2027, we will go to the polls,” he declared.

Expanding on his argument, the National Assembly president stressed that these elections cannot be delayed, as they are legally mandated. He urged citizens to demand their organization in January 2027. “Voter registration should already be underway, yet it remains incomplete. We fought—and some lost their lives—to prevent election postponements. We cannot tolerate maneuvers to delay them now,” he asserted firmly.

Sonko also expressed confidence that despite potential interference, PASTEF remains Senegal’s largest political party. He pointed to the ongoing voter card sales as a clear indicator of his party’s future electoral strength. “The results of these sales already give us an idea of our performance before voting even begins. These operations serve as an excellent gauge of our electoral muscle,” he concluded.