Senegal to hold early elections on November 17 as President Faye seeks parliamentary majority

Six months into his presidency, Bassirou Diomaye Faye has called for early elections to be held on November 17th after dissolving Senegal’s parliament. The decision is seen as a strategic move to secure a parliamentary majority, which could enable Faye and his government to implement significant reforms aimed at improving the country’s living standards.

Faye, the youngest president in Senegal’s history at 44, was elected in April after a close race. His administration, alongside Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, has been committed to tackling corruption, reducing inflation, and ensuring a more equitable distribution of Senegal’s natural resources.

However, the government’s efforts have been hindered by the lack of a majority in parliament. With the upcoming elections, Faye hopes to gain the support needed to push through these transformative changes.

While the opposition, led by former President Macky Sall’s Benno Bokk Yaakar coalition, has criticized the move, many see the elections as an opportunity for Faye to solidify his mandate and deliver on his promises for a better future for Senegal.