Senegal held parliamentary elections on November 17, 2024, amid a backdrop of economic challenges and political restructuring. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who came to power in March 2024, is seeking a parliamentary majority to push through ambitious reforms promised during his election campaign. The elections come after Faye's government faced significant opposition, leading to the dissolution of the national assembly in September 2024 [298348e4].
Approximately 7.3 million registered voters participated in the elections, casting their ballots for 165 members of parliament who will serve five-year terms. The political landscape is notably tense, with unemployment exceeding 20% and inflation rates remaining high, complicating the government's efforts to stabilize the economy [298348e4]. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, appointed by Faye, campaigned on a leftist pan-African agenda, aiming to address the pressing socio-economic issues facing the nation. Meanwhile, former president Macky Sall has led an opposition coalition from abroad, further intensifying the political climate [298348e4].
The elections are critical for Faye's administration, as the government has faced scrutiny following a budget deficit audit that led Moody's to downgrade Senegal's credit rating. The outcome of these elections will not only shape the immediate political landscape but also determine the feasibility of Faye's proposed reforms aimed at revitalizing the economy and reducing foreign dependence [298348e4]. Polling stations closed at 6:00 PM, marking the end of a significant day in Senegal's democratic process.