Senegal MPs back electoral reform that could open door to Sonko candidacy

Senegal's National ​Assembly overwhelmingly approved on Tuesday ​changes to the country's electoral ‌code, introducing ​provisions that could pave the way for Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to run in the ‌2029 presidential election.

* Firebrand opposition leader Sonko, 51, was excluded from standing in the 2024 election following a conviction, which could potentially bar him again ‌in 2029. His handpicked successor, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, went on to win ‌the presidency. * Since taking office, differences have emerged between Faye and Sonko, fuelling debate that the prime minister may seek the top job himself in 2029.

* The ⁠bill, ​introduced under an ⁠emergency procedure criticized by opposition parties, was easily adopted by the National Assembly, which is ⁠dominated by Sonko's Pastef party, with 128 votes in favour, 11 against and ​two abstentions. * The legislation amends provisions that had previously disqualified Sonko ⁠from running for office, potentially removing a key legal obstacle to his candidacy.

* The ⁠bill ​will now be sent to the president, who must decide whether to sign it into law. Opposition parties could also challenge the ⁠adopted bill at the Constitutional Council. * Separately, the presidency on Monday ⁠released draft reforms ⁠covering the constitution, electoral code, political parties and the constitutional court for public comment ahead of cabinet debates.

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