Ousmane Sonko has recently demonstrated a striking inconsistency in his public statements regarding Senegal’s Constitutional Council, transitioning from an initial call for adherence to its rulings to delivering sharp criticisms. During the inauguration of Pastef’s new headquarters in Touba, the political leader openly condemned what he perceived as the President’s influence over legislation passed by elected deputies, labeling the current situation as « grave ».
Ousmane Sonko appears to have significantly altered his position on the Constitutional Council. His stance has notably evolved within a mere few days. Following the Council’s decision to invalidate a bill adopted by the National Assembly – a text designed to bolster the Parliament’s powers at the expense of those held by the President of the Republic – the leader of Pastef had previously advocated for respecting this very decision.
« This decision is binding on all! (…) In a democracy, when institutions fulfill their roles, each within its designated sphere of action, no crisis can emerge, » Ousmane Sonko had declared at the time. However, during the recent inauguration event for Pastef’s Touba headquarters, the prominent political figure delivered a markedly different address. Addressing his supporters, he vehemently criticized the verdict issued by the seven members of the Constitutional Council.
« The Constitutional Council cannot dictate that parliamentarians should enact laws solely to please the President of the Republic. What is unfolding in this nation is serious, » he asserted. Ousmane Sonko also questioned the Head of State’s frequent appeals to the Constitutional Council. « Every week, he refers matters to the Constitutional Council, » Sonko exclaimed, in a direct reference to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.