Senegal President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has dissolved the opposition-led parliament, citing roadblocks to reform. Faye, who was elected on an anti-establishment platform just six months ago, stated that working with the assembly had become difficult as they refused to discuss the budget law and dissolve wasteful state institutions. Faye’s party, PASTEF, is expected to win the upcoming snap elections on November 17, following his victory in the presidential election earlier this year. Opposition leaders, including former President Macky Sall, have condemned the dissolution, accusing Faye of “perjury.”
Faye’s rise to power reflects the frustration of Senegal’s youth with the current political situation and lack of progress. During his campaign, he promised extensive reforms to improve living standards by fighting corruption, reviewing fishing permits, and securing more natural resources for the population. However, these promises have yet to materialize, with Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko blaming the opposition-led parliament for blocking their efforts.
The cancellation of a budgetary debate in June due to disputes over government policy roadmaps has highlighted the difficulty Faye faces in implementing his proposed reforms. With the new elections, the timeline for passing next year’s budget could be impacted, potentially delaying the reforms further. Faye’s decision to dissolve parliament reflects his determination to deliver on his promises to bring systemic transformation to Senegal, despite facing opposition from the assembly.
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