In a firm declaration, Ousmane Sonko, President of the National Assembly and leader of the PASTEF party, has categorically rejected any proposal to postpone Senegal’s upcoming local elections scheduled for January 2027. Speaking amid growing speculation, he emphasized that delaying the vote would be an unacceptable betrayal of the sacrifices made to uphold democratic principles.
Three lives sacrificed to prevent electoral interference
Sonko drew a direct parallel between the current situation and the 2024 presidential election, when three citizens lost their lives in protests against efforts to postpone the vote. He questioned the legitimacy of any new attempts to delay the 2027 elections, particularly as the 2024 legislative elections were an exceptional case—they followed the dissolution of the National Assembly before its term ended. The 2027 local elections, however, are firmly scheduled in the electoral calendar and cannot be postponed.
A legal and democratic imperative
The PASTEF leader stressed that the elections must proceed as planned, with the electoral roll revision already overdue. He warned against any attempts to manipulate the process, stating that Senegalese citizens must demand the elections take place in January 2027. « The law guarantees these elections, and the people must hold the government accountable. There can be no room for maneuvering to delay what is rightfully theirs, » he asserted.
PASTEF’s electoral strength on display
Sonko also expressed confidence in his party’s dominance ahead of the vote, pointing to the ongoing voter card sales as a strong indicator of PASTEF’s electoral prospects. « The card sales campaign is a clear barometer of our support. The results already give us a preview of the election outcome before the first ballot is cast, » he concluded.
