Senegal’s President Usman Sonko has taken a decisive step by dissolving the opposition-dominated National Assembly, paving the way for early legislative elections on November 17, 2024. In a televised address, the 44-year-old leader said that this move was essential for delivering on his campaign promises and driving the reforms he envisions for the nation.

“I am dissolving the National Assembly to give the people the institutional power necessary to implement the systemic changes I promised during the election,” Sonko stated.

Since his victory in the March 2024 presidential election, Sonko has been vocal about his ambitions to transform Senegal’s political and economic landscape. His platform of radical change resonated with the country’s youth, who make up two-thirds of the population. However, Sonko’s plans have faced resistance from an opposition-controlled Parliament, limiting his ability to introduce the sweeping reforms he vowed to enact.

The decision to dissolve Parliament and call for early elections is seen as Sonko’s effort to break this gridlock. He emphasized that it is time to start a new phase in his presidency, where real change can be achieved.

“The time has come to push forward the reforms that will shape the future of our country. A collaborative relationship with the current parliamentary majority has proven elusive,” he explained.

Sonko’s administration has been particularly focused on tackling corruption, a major issue in Senegalese politics. Shortly after taking office, Prime Minister Usman Sonko pledged to dissolve the National Assembly and launch investigations into widespread government corruption under former president Macky Sall. Sonko has accused his predecessor of mismanaging public funds and engaging in wasteful spending.

The upcoming elections represent a crucial moment for Sonko as he seeks a parliamentary majority that will enable him to deliver on his ambitious reform agenda. He aims to address issues like unemployment, youth empowerment, and economic inequality—key concerns in a country where the majority of citizens are under 35.

Sonko also revealed that a Court of Auditors report detailing financial misconduct under the previous government would soon be made public, marking a significant step in his anti-corruption efforts.

As Senegal prepares for these early elections, the results will likely determine whether Sonko can secure the political support necessary to push forward his bold vision for the nation’s future.