Six months into his presidency, Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal has called for snap elections on November 17th, following his dissolution of parliament. Analysts suggest that Faye, whose party currently lacks a parliamentary majority, could improve his position with this move.
The opposition coalition, Benno Bokk Yaakar, led by former President Macky Sall, has criticized the decision, accusing Faye of dishonesty.
Faye, 44, Senegal’s youngest leader, won the presidency in April, shortly after being released from prison along with Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko.
He had promised significant reforms to raise living standards, tackle corruption, and secure a fairer share of Senegal’s natural resources for its citizens. However, he claims that the lack of a parliamentary majority has hindered progress on these promises.
Meanwhile, Senegal continues to face economic challenges, including high inflation, prompting many citizens to seek better opportunities abroad, particularly in Europe.
