In a bold strategic move, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Sénégal has announced the creation of a new political formation aimed at consolidating support for his administration. The revelation came during a four-hour closed-door session with 306 mayors from all 14 regions of the country, all aligned with the Coalition Diomaye Président.
The presidential decision follows the publication of an official communiqué by the coalition, emphasizing the need to formalize political backing for the head of state. A dedicated committee, led by Aminata Touré, the coalition’s general supervisor, has been tasked with drafting the foundational statutes and organizational framework for the upcoming party within the shortest possible timeframe.
The coalition’s statement frames this initiative as a logical progression in its mission, underscoring the future party’s role in fostering an “organic unity” centered on President Faye. This move is seen as preparation for upcoming electoral challenges and the strengthening of local governance structures, with mayors praising the administration’s commitment to territorial equity and decentralization.
However, the political landscape remains fraught with tension between President Faye and his former ally, Ousmane Sonko, who currently serves as Speaker of the National Assembly. Their relationship has deteriorated significantly since Sonko’s departure from the Prime Minister’s office in May 2026, despite retaining a strong parliamentary majority.
The rift deepened following the adoption of a constitutional reform bill by lawmakers on June 29. The proposed amendments include prohibiting the president from concurrently leading a political party, transforming the Constitutional Council into a Constitutional Court, and expanding parliamentary powers. The clash between the two leaders now centers on the reform’s finalization process: Sonko advocates for immediate presidential enactment based on legal precedent, while President Faye insists on a referendum to allow direct citizen validation—a date for which has not yet been set.
