The political framework of Senegal

Political Outline

Current Political Leaders

President: Bassirou Diomaye FAYE (since 2 April 2024)
Prime Minister : Ousmane SONKO (since 2 April 2024)

Next Election Dates

Presidential: March 2029
National Assembly: November 2029

Main Political Parties

Senegal maintains a robust multi-party system, where the number of parties is important. The major political parties in the country are:

- African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (PASTEF): left-wing populism, pan-Africanism, achieved a significant victory in the November 2024 legislative elections, securing 130 out of 165 seats in the National Assembly
- Takku Wallu Sénégal (TWS): centre to centre-right, coalition formed in September 2024, including former ruling parties such as the Alliance for the Republic (APR) and the Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS)
- Jàmm ak Njariñ: centre-left to left-wing, formed after the dissolution of the United in Hope (BBY) coalition in September 2024, this coalition includes the Alliance of the Forces of Progress (AFP) and the Socialist Party of Senegal (PS)
- Sàmm Sa Kàddu (SSK): big tent coalition.

Other parties/coalitions represented in the parliament include: Andu Nawlé, Farlu, Jël Linu Moom, Kiraay ak Natangue, Sénégaal Kese, And Ci Koolutè, And Beesal Sénégal, and Sopi Senegal.

Executive Power

The President of Senegal is the head of state and government, elected by popular vote for a five-year term. The President holds significant executive powers, including serving as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, overseeing the implementation of laws, and managing the country’s administration. The Prime Minister, appointed by the President, serves as the head of government. The Council of Ministers is appointed directly by the President.

Legislative Power

Senegal has a unicameral legislature, with the National Assembly comprising 165 members elected by direct, popular vote to serve five-year terms. Legislative power is shared between the government and the National Assembly. Unlike in some other systems, the President does not have the authority to dissolve the National Assembly. The people of Senegal enjoy considerable political rights and actively participate in the democratic process.