Senegalese parliament clears way for Sonko’s presidential bid
The Senegalese parliament has approved a bill that enables Ousmane Sonko to contest in the next presidential election. Sonko, previously barred due to a defamation conviction, is currently serving as prime minister. The new law amends electoral rules that had blocked his candidacy. The move has sparked debate among political parties in Senegal.
What we know
- The parliament passed a bill on Tuesday allowing Ousmane Sonko to run for president despite his past conviction.
- Sonko was previously barred from the February 2024 presidential poll after being convicted of defamation.
- The new law amends Articles 29 and 30 of Senegal’s electoral code, removing the ineligibility linked to defamation convictions.
- The reform was supported by the ruling majority led by Sonko’s PASTEF party, but opposed by the FDR coalition.
- An amnesty law passed in March 2024 had already annulled Sonko’s conviction, according to his lawyers.
