Senegal's Constitutional Council Rejects Constitutional Reform Law

Politics

Senegal

The Senegalese Constitutional Council has invalidated a law revising the constitution, which was previously adopted by the Pastef party's deputies. Following the ruling, National Assembly President Ousmane Sonko recalled deputies from their break.

Key points

  • The invalidated law, designated as n°18/2026, aimed to revise the constitution and alter the balance of power.
  • Ousmane Sonko, who serves as both the president of the Pastef party and the National Assembly, acknowledged the court's decision as binding.
  • The emergency meeting of the parliamentary bureau was scheduled for July 10, 2026, following the court's ruling on July 9.
  • Tensions between Ousmane Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye have been noted following Ousmane Sonko's removal from the position of Prime Minister.

Why it matters

The court's intervention highlights a significant institutional conflict and underscores the ongoing political friction between the executive branch and the legislative leadership in Senegal.