Senegal MPs back electoral reform that could open door to Sonko candidacy
Senegal's National Assembly has approved electoral reforms that may allow Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to run in the 2029 presidential election. The changes could remove legal barriers that previously disqualified him from candidacy. The bill, passed with significant support from Sonko's party, will now be reviewed by the president and may face challenges from opposition parties.
- ▪The National Assembly approved changes to the electoral code with 128 votes in favor and 11 against.
- ▪Ousmane Sonko was previously barred from the 2024 election due to a conviction.
- ▪The new legislation could eliminate legal obstacles for Sonko's potential candidacy in 2029.
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Senegal MPs back electoral reform that could open door to Sonko candidacySign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxFILE PHOTO: Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko of the ruling party PASTEF (African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity) speaks during a political rally in Dakar, Senegal, November 8, 2025. REUTERS/Anait Miridzhanian/File PhotoPublished Apr 29, 2026, 02:08 AMUpdated Apr 29, 2026, 02:08 AMListenDAKAR, April 28 - Senegal's National Assembly overwhelmingly approved on Tuesday changes to the country's electoral code, introducing provisions that could pave the way for Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to run in the 2029 presidential election.• Firebrand opposition leader Sonko, 51, was excluded from standing in the 2024 election following a conviction,…
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