Senegal’s opposition presses president to set date for local elections

Senegal's opposition is urging President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to establish a date for local elections, which could serve as a crucial test between him and his former mentor. Ousmane Sonko, the opposition leader and parliament speaker, has been demanding the elections be held on time, accusing the president of dragging his feet.

Sonko and his Pastef party split from Faye in May after Faye fired Sonko as prime minister. The five-year mandates for municipal and departmental authorities end in January, and the opposition fears a delay could weaken their position ahead of the 2029 presidential race. Faye has not yet signed the decrees needed to launch the electoral process, including setting a date and opening voter registration.

The current mandates would expire by early November if elections are to be held before the current ones end. However, Faye's political future remains uncertain, with analysts suggesting he may be hesitant to set a date while it is still unclear.