President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s referendum strategy challenges Ousmane Sonko’s parliamentary gains

Despite the parliamentary majority securing a legislative win for Pastef, with deputies approving the constitutional revision bill by an impressive 129 votes, the ultimate decision has emanated from the Presidential Palace, completely reshaping the political landscape. Justice Minister Me Moussa Sarr has disclosed that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye will not proceed with the promulgation of the text as it emerged from the National Assembly. Instead, the President has invoked Article 103 of the Constitution, opting to present the reform directly to the populace via a referendum. This move represents a significant impediment to Pastef’s parliamentary strategy. What appeared to be a swift legislative victory for the deputies has been effectively sidelined by the Presidency. All indications pointed towards a rapid adoption, as the majority of parliamentarians endorsed the committee’s version of the text, even after government amendments were rejected, reinforcing the political will behind the bill’s proponents. However, behind the scenes, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye…