Senegal’s President Usman Sonko has dissolved the opposition-controlled National Assembly, calling for early legislative elections on November 17, 2024. In a televised address, Sonko explained that the move is intended to create a new phase for his presidency, allowing him to implement the systemic reforms he promised during his campaign.

Sonko, who took office after winning the March 2024 presidential election, highlighted the need for a fresh mandate from the people to deliver on his agenda. He declared:

“I am dissolving the National Assembly to seek from the people the institutional means that will enable me to give substance to the systemic transformation I promised them.”

The president acknowledged that attempts to work with the opposition-led parliamentary majority had stalled his vision for reform. He indicated that dissolving Parliament is necessary to bring about the significant changes he had committed to, particularly in areas like corruption eradication and economic policy overhaul.

Sonko’s administration has faced challenges due to a lack of legislative support, with opposition parties resisting many of his proposed reforms. Prime Minister Usman Sonko previously pledged to launch an extensive anti-corruption probe but has been hindered by the opposition’s control of Parliament.

Sonko, who campaigned on a platform of transparency, accountability, and reform, has accused former president Macky Sall of financial mismanagement. He promised to unveil a report from the Court of Auditors that highlights excess government spending under Sall’s administration.

The early elections are seen as a critical opportunity for Sonko to secure a majority in Parliament, which would enable him to deliver on his campaign promises of cracking down on corruption and implementing economic reforms. With two-thirds of the country’s population under 35, Sonko’s vision for Senegal resonates particularly with young voters who are eager for change.

The dissolution of Parliament marks a significant moment in Senegal’s political trajectory, with the outcome of the upcoming elections set to shape the country’s future.