In a decisive move to reshape Senegal’s political landscape, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has unveiled plans to establish a new political party designed to unify all factions backing his administration. The announcement came during a four-hour meeting with 306 mayors from all 14 regions of the country, all of whom are members of the Coalition Diomaye Président. The initiative aims to solidify the president’s support base as power dynamics continue to shift at the highest levels of government.
The president has entrusted Aminata Touré, the coalition’s general supervisor, with forming a dedicated committee. This team’s task is to draft the organizational and statutory foundations of the new party in the coming weeks, ensuring it is fully operational ahead of upcoming elections.
According to the coalition’s official statement, this transition represents a natural evolution of their commitment. The future party is intended to foster an ‘organic unity’ under the president’s leadership, positioning itself as a cohesive force for the nation’s political future.
Local officials in attendance reaffirmed their strong backing for the president’s agenda, emphasizing his commitment to territorial equity. They highlighted how his policies prioritize local governments, placing them at the heart of public sector strategies.
This political restructuring unfolds against a backdrop of growing divisions between President Faye and his former ally, Ousmane Sonko. Sonko, who stepped down as Prime Minister in May 2026, now serves as Speaker of the National Assembly, where his parliamentary majority continues to wield significant influence.
Their rift deepened following the adoption of a constitutional reform bill by lawmakers on June 29. The proposed changes include prohibiting the president from simultaneously leading a political party, transforming the Constitutional Council into a Constitutional Court, and expanding parliamentary powers.
The disagreement between the two leaders centers on how the reform should be finalized. While Sonko advocates for immediate enactment by the president, citing legal precedent, Faye insists on organizing a referendum—though no date has been set—to allow citizens to decide directly on the matter.