In Senegal’s weekend parliamentary elections, the ruling party secured more than three-quarters of the seats, according to national provisional results announced on Thursday. This landslide victory potentially gives President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s Pastef party the ability to enact their ambitious reform plans.

The preliminary results, as reported by the national vote-counting commission and confirmed by a Pastef official, show that the party won 130 out of the 165 seats in the national assembly. These results, however, are still provisional and must be officially confirmed by the Constitutional Council within a five-day period.

The ruling party’s dominance in the elections is seen as a reflection of President Faye’s popularity and his party’s message of change and progress. The President himself was seen casting his ballot during the early legislative election in Ndiaganiao, Mbour, Senegal on November 17, 2024.

In addition to securing a majority in the national assembly, the Pastef party also holds the presidency and a strong presence in local governments. This could potentially pave the way for the implementation of their ambitious reform agenda.

Observers note that this overwhelming victory for the ruling party could also bring some concern for political diversity and checks and balances in the country. However, the government has reassured the public that they remain committed to democracy and will work towards inclusive governance for all citizens

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