Opposition coalition urges removal of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko from Senegal’s National Assembly

A coalition of opposition parties has intensified pressure on the government by demanding the expulsion of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko from the National Assembly, labeling his parliamentary presence as unconstitutional and illegitimate.

Legal and political storm over Sonko’s parliamentary status

In a strongly worded statement released on June 3, 2026, the Front pour la Défense de la Démocratie et de la République (FDR) accused Ousmane Sonko of violating electoral laws by retaining his seat in parliament while serving as head of government. The coalition argues that the situation breaches Article LO172 of the Electoral Code, which requires ministers elected as deputies to resign from their ministerial positions within eight days or forfeit their parliamentary mandate.

The FDR further contends that recent amendments to the Assembly’s internal regulations cannot override constitutional and statutory provisions, describing Sonko’s return to the chamber as a flagrant violation of legal norms. The coalition has called for the immediate annulment of the decision, describing it as an act of parliamentary coup.

Cross-party mobilization against constitutional breach

The opposition’s stance has galvanized support among several political parties and civil society groups, who have joined forces to challenge Sonko’s legitimacy. Some deputies have filed a petition with the Constitutional Council, seeking a ruling on the constitutionality of his dual role. The FDR has also urged all stakeholders to defend the integrity of Senegal’s institutions, warning that any normalization of this situation could set a dangerous precedent.

The political and legal impasse shows no sign of easing, as debates over Sonko’s parliamentary eligibility continue to dominate national discourse, raising concerns about institutional stability and adherence to the rule of law.