The Front for the Defense of Democracy and the Republic (FDR) has called for the formation of a broad front against the current administration following the Constitutional Council’s decision on Ousmane Sonko’s return to parliament. In a statement released on Thursday, the opposition coalition argued that the ruling does not resolve the political controversy surrounding the former prime minister’s reinstatement.

Acknowledging the Council’s declaration of incompetence on the forfeiture question raised by petitioners, the FDR maintained that this “does not diminish” the challenges posed against the reinstatement of the Pastef leader.

The coalition continued its criticism of Sonko and the ruling party, accusing them of steering the country into a situation marked by “incompetence” and “arrogance.” The FDR also took issue with remarks made by the Pastef president during recent interviews with international media, arguing that they reflect a questionable vision of national identity.

In its statement, the FDR warned that Senegal is going through a troubling period and cautioned against what it called the current government’s excesses. The coalition pledged to continue its struggle within the framework of republican institutions and respect for the law.

Beyond the Sonko case, the FDR called for a rallying of political and social forces opposed to the regime. It invited political parties, civil society organizations, unions, youth movements, and democrats to mobilize and form a broad front aimed at offering an alternative to the current government.

This appeal comes just hours after the Constitutional Council rejected appeals challenging the procedure that allowed Sonko to regain his parliamentary mandate, effectively ending the legal battle initiated by the opposition on this matter.