Key facts
- Senegalese lawmakers adopted a constitutional amendment.
- The reform curbs presidential powers.
- The reform expands legislative powers.
- The amendment was proposed by Ousmane Sonko's party.
- Critics argue the changes will exacerbate political divisions.
- Senegalese police used tear gas to disperse protesters outside parliament.
- The demonstration occurred on Monday.
- The amendment will be put to a referendum.
Senegal's National Assembly has adopted a constitutional amendment that significantly reduces presidential powers and expands the authority of the legislature. This reform, championed by ruling party leader Ousmane Sonko, aims to shift the balance of power within the government. The proposed changes have ignited controversy and faced considerable opposition, with critics arguing that they will exacerbate existing political divisions within the country.
Amidst the parliamentary debate on the amendment, Senegalese police deployed tear gas to disperse demonstrators gathered outside the parliament building on Monday. The protesters voiced their strong opposition to the constitutional changes, fearing a further concentration of power or an imbalance that could destabilize the nation. The adoption of the amendment by the National Assembly means it will now proceed to a referendum, where Senegalese citizens will have the final say on its implementation.
The push for this reform by Ousmane Sonko's party signals a potential restructuring of Senegal's governance framework. The outcome of the upcoming referendum is anticipated to have significant implications for the country's political landscape and the future distribution of power between the executive and legislative branches.