The Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS), led by Karim Wade, has taken a firm stance on the upcoming constitutional referendum, calling on citizens to vote ‘No’ and raising serious concerns about the reforms proposed.
In a statement released earlier this week, the PDS acknowledged President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s decision to consult the public through a national referendum on the constitutional amendments. However, the party views these reforms as a direct threat to Senegal’s institutional stability and democratic foundations.
Why the PDS opposes the constitutional changes
The party argues that the proposed revisions are not in the national interest but rather driven by personal ambitions, particularly those of Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef movement. According to the PDS, Sonko’s actions reflect a deliberate attempt to undermine the country’s republican institutions and destabilize the constitutional order.
A call to action for voters
The PDS is mobilizing its supporters and the broader public to reject the reforms by voting ‘No’ in the referendum. The party contends that the changes would weaken democratic safeguards and disrupt the balance of power established by Senegal’s Constitution.
Accusations of political manipulation
Beyond its critique of the reforms, the PDS accuses Ousmane Sonko of using state institutions for political gain and deliberately sowing instability. The party alleges that Sonko’s actions have already contributed to economic and social challenges in Senegal, further justifying its opposition to the proposed changes.
The PDS also condemns recent violence targeting opposition figures, including the attack on deputy Abdou Mbow during legislative proceedings. The party blames supporters of Pastef for these incidents, framing them as part of a broader strategy to erode public trust in institutions.
As political tensions escalate, the debate over the constitutional referendum remains at the forefront of national discourse, with the PDS positioning itself as a defender of institutional integrity against what it describes as reckless and self-serving reforms.
