Big changes are brewing in Senegal’s political landscape! Former presidents Macky Sall and Abdoulaye Wade’s parties, Alliance for the Republic (APR) and Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS), have formed an unexpected coalition to take on recently-elected President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in the November 17 snap legislative election.
This alliance is significant, considering APR and PDS held 106 out of 165 seats in the outgoing national assembly.
President Faye, who won the presidential election in April with a landslide victory, has been working to audit the previous administration and impose travel bans on some former officials.
However, his efforts have led to a fallout with some former allies.
The coalition between APR and PDS could hinder Faye’s plans to secure a majority for his Pastef party and implement promised reforms.
This, in turn, might destabilize Senegal’s politics and stir unrest. Faye dissolved the National Assembly on September 12, citing difficulties working with the opposition, which refused to pass executive bills.
Key Players in the Coalition:
- Alliance for the Republic (APR): Former President Macky Sall’s party
- Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS): Former President Abdoulaye Wade’s party
- Former Prime Minister Idrissa Seck: Joining the coalition, having run for president multiple times
What’s at Stake:
- Pastef Party’s Majority: Faye’s party aims to secure a majority, but the APR-PDS coalition might disrupt this bid
- Reforms and Stability: The outcome of the election could impact Faye’s promised reforms and Senegal’s overall political stability
The November 17 election is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, and its results will significantly impact Senegal’s future.
