
Ousmane Sonko, leader of Pastef and President of the National Assembly, delivered a speech to his supporters, criticizing what he views as political opportunism. Sonko expressed reservations about the announced referendum and accused some political actors of repositioning themselves by claiming allegiance to the President, which he considers opportunistic. He specifically targeted those he claims change their discourse based on current political tensions, stating that it is amusing to hear certain opposition figures now presenting themselves as defenders of Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Sonko argued that this reflects a dynamic of political co-optation around the presidential figure. He also denounced a strategic void left by some political leaders who have become detached from their base, asserting that this opens the door to opportunistic exploitation. Sonko emphasized that Pastef would not accept such actions. Furthermore, he expressed full confidence in his party's electoral prospects, stating that he foresees no scenario in which Pastef and its allies could be defeated in upcoming electoral consultations, including the referendum, local elections, legislative elections, or the 2029 presidential election.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Must ReadA 32-year-old marabout-healer, S. S. Guèye, is accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl seven times in Touba. The girl's mother had entrusted her to Guèye for 50,000 FCFA to treat nightmares following her father's death. The alleged assaults occurred in November 2023. The teenager testified that she was subjected to seven assaults, one of which caused significant bleeding. A medical certificate corroborates her claims, indicating tears and loss of the hymen. Guèye denies the allegations, claiming a conspiracy by S. Diop, but admitted to being attracted to the minor and wanting to marry her, and to kissing her once for a selfie. However, during the preliminary investigation, he reportedly admitted to having sexual relations with the victim, claiming she was not a virgin. The trial before the Diourbel Criminal Chamber was adjourned to July 28 after a heated exchange between the judge and the defense lawyer, Me Cheikh Ngom.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee's decision to annul player Balogun's suspension has sparked controversy, with observers questioning the impartiality of the body due to the presence of Moez El Nasri. El Nasri, a high-ranking Tunisian football official, has a history of involvement in contentious African football matters, including the decision to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title. His recurring role in sensitive cases has led to concerns about the neutrality and transparency of decision-making processes within international football organizations. Belgium, involved in an appeal related to this case, has officially initiated a challenge. For some African football circles, the situation transcends a mere sporting dispute, reviving memories of past controversies and administrative decisions that were strongly denounced in Senegal.
Must ReadCulture Minister Alpha Thiam expressed his disagreement with the proposed constitutional revision by the Pastef parliamentary group. He stated that 120 deputies cannot unilaterally change the Constitution, following President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's announcement on June 29 to submit the constitutional revision project to a referendum due to strong reactions. Thiam also reiterated his support for President Faye forming his own political party, asserting that Senegal would support him. He urged political figures such as Karim Wade, Abdoulaye Wade, Macky Sall, and Bougane Guèye Dani to demonstrate "patriotic surge" for the country's benefit. Addressing Pastef militants, Thiam denounced alleged pressure on social media, stating, "We will not accept people terrorizing us with 72-hour stories. We are not cowards." These statements highlight divisions within the majority regarding institutional matters, particularly constitutional reform, and reignite discussions about President Faye's political future.