The Parti Démocratique Sénégalais (PDS) has publicly declared its stance on the proposed constitutional revisions, which are set to be decided by a national referendum. While commending President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s decision to involve the populace in this crucial matter, the party, led by Karim Wade, is actively campaigning for a decisive “No” vote and has leveled serious allegations against Ousmane Sonko.

The PDS articulated its clear position on the constitutional reform debate in a communiqué released this past Tuesday. The political organization applauded President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s initiative to present the proposed amendments to the Constitution for a popular referendum, following extensive national dialogue.

From the PDS’s perspective, this nationwide consultation offers an essential opportunity for the Senegalese people to directly weigh in on reforms that the party deems potentially detrimental to the nation’s institutional stability.

A call to reject the reforms

The party is mobilizing its members, supporters, and all citizens to come out in force and cast a “No” vote during the upcoming referendum.

According to the PDS, the suggested constitutional changes are driven by personal motives attributed to Ousmane Sonko. The party believes these initiatives signify an intent to undermine the republican institutions and the very foundations of Senegalese democracy.

The communiqué further asserts that the leader of Pastef is attempting to instigate an institutional crisis, having, in the party’s view, already contributed to a decline in the country’s economic and social conditions.

Allegations against Pastef

The PDS alleges that Ousmane Sonko is exploiting state institutions for political ends and describes his actions as an attempt to destabilize the constitutional order.

The party has called upon the President of the Republic and judicial authorities to implement all necessary measures to safeguard the institutions, civil peace, and public liberties.

In the same statement, the PDS also condemned the violence reportedly inflicted upon Deputy Abdou Mbow during recent incidents at the National Assembly, attributing these acts to Pastef parliamentarians.

This firm declaration comes amidst significant political tensions surrounding the proposed constitutional reform project, which continues to fuel intense public debate among various political factions across Sénégal.