President Faye Seeks Mandate Amid Rival Coalition Challenge

With dynamic rallies, vibrant fireworks displays, and extensive campaign tours, Senegalese political parties are sparing no effort in attracting voter support for an upcoming parliamentary election that will shape President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s ability to pursue his agenda. Since his sweeping victory in April, Faye has faced mounting pressure to fulfill his campaign promises to tackle corruption and improve citizens’ livelihoods.

Tensions with the opposition-led national assembly have escalated, with Faye accusing lawmakers of blocking meaningful progress on budget discussions and other critical proposals. Last month, he dissolved parliament to pave the way for the November 17 legislative election. His Pastef party now aims for a majority to solidify his mandate. However, a powerful opposition coalition led by former presidents Macky Sall and Abdoulaye Wade stands in his way.

Political analyst Mamadou Seck emphasizes the significance of this election: “The critical challenge is whether Diomaye Faye still holds the confidence of the 54% who elected him.” Earlier this month, Faye launched a 25-year development plan designed to stimulate local industry, diversify the economy, and generate jobs for Senegal’s rapidly growing population.

For the first time, Pastef is navigating the election without any coalition partners, while an alliance between Sall’s Alliance for the Republic (APR) and Wade’s Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS) presents formidable opposition, having held a significant number of seats in the previous assembly. In response, Pastef has recruited former allies of Sall to bolster support.

Two other coalitions, led by former Prime Minister Amadou Ba and Dakar’s mayor Barthelemy Dias, also joined the race. Addressing the nation on Friday, Faye expressed hope for a peaceful, fair campaign, promising, “The best will win.”