DAKAR, Senegal - The atmosphere is palpable as Senegal braces for its pivotal legislative elections on November 17, 2024. Across the nation, campaign rallies have culminated, leaving the political arena charged with excitement and tension. With around 7.3 million registered voters, these elections are not just about filling seats; they hold the key to the future of the new President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s ambitious plans for reforms.
Since the campaign kicked off on October 27, over 40 political parties and coalitions have actively sought voter support, trying to sway public opinion amid rising tensions and sporadic violence. The overarching narrative is the need for substantial economic change and stability as Senegal grapples with the repercussions of economic strain and potential political unrest created by the election.
President Faye, who took office earlier this year on the back of promises to fight corruption and improve living standards, dissolved the previous opposition-led legislature just months after his election. The incumbent struggles to enact the sweeping changes he vowed during his campaign, citing legislative blockages as the primary hinderance. He urged voters to grant his party, Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF), the mandate to pursue the reforms necessary for growth.
The stakes are high as Faye’s party doesn’t currently hold the majority, making these elections monumental not only for his administration's effectiveness but also for the political stability of Senegal, often heralded as a bastion of democracy amid regional turmoil.
Faye stands alongside Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who has previously rallied formidable public support but has faced challenges when addressing the nation’s pressing issues. Sonko's fiery rhetoric has mobilized many but has also embroiled him and his supporters within contentious political theater, with allegations of violence dogging the campaign.
The elections come at a turbulent time with inflation soaring and economic instability adding to public discontent. Many voters, such as street hawker Cheikh Diagne from downtown Dakar, are candid about their priorities: “We want lower living costs, affordable water, electricity, and public transport so we can live decently,” he emphasized.
Competition arises from formidable opposition coalitions, particularly the Takku Wallu coalition led by former President Macky Sall and Avocat de la République (APR), which many believe could complicate PASTEF’s bid for dominance. Other candidates like Barthelemy Dias, mayor of Dakar, and Amadou Ba, former Prime Minister, have formed their own coalitions, leading to an unpredictable political battle.
The campaign has not been without its tumult. Reports of clashes between party supporters and violent incidents, including arson at opposition party headquarters, have marred the otherwise orderly conduct of pre-election activities. Just recently, Sonko urged restraint but warned against passive tolerance of aggressions aimed at his followers, saying, “Let them not say we’ve changed… but we didn’t respond.” His call for vigilance has served to rally his supporters but raised concerns about escalatory violence.
International observers, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), are poised to monitor the elections closely. A 90-member election observation mission will oversee the electoral process, aiming to affirm the integrity of Senegal’s democratic practices.
The new government is already under pressure, as the looming threat of increased civil discontent permeates the campaign. Anticipation rises as Senegal prepares for voting day; polling stations will open at 8 AM local time and close at 6 PM. Citizens will elect 165 lawmakers for five-year terms, and many anticipate reliable projection of results could emerge as early as Monday morning.
Lessons learned from previous elections suggest Senegalese voters typically align their legislative choices with their presidential selections. Political analysts argue this could influence current sentiments, pushing voters to endorse Faye’s vision and the PASTEF party’s policies.
If Faye’s party, led by the charismatic Sonko, is to gain the necessary legislative backing, they must demonstrate their capability of delivering on promises of economic transformation and social justice. Amid notable inflation, unemployment rates have soared. Young people continue to face bleak job prospects, prompting many to risk perilous journeys toward Europe seeking opportunities.
Analysts note the importance of this election: “Voters may choose Faye and Sonko for their promises of change; they hope this will validate their choice for president just months ago.” There’s speculation too about what Faye and Sonko might do if they secure legislative dominance, potentially even moving toward constitutional changes without needing popular referendums.
Whether Senegal’s political atmosphere can weather these challenges remains to be seen as the elections near. The population's choice will echo beyond the immediate results, framing the government’s future direction and reaffirming Senegal’s longstanding democratic reputation.
With the final rally completed, the stage is set for citizens to finally voice their will through the ballot on November 17. The eyes of not only Senegal but the entire West African region will watch closely to see how this vibrant democracy responds to this latest test.
