Ousmane Sonko questions the sincerity of the proposed constitutional referendum
via SeneNews1 min read
Ousmane Sonko, leader of Pastef, has expressed skepticism regarding the government's commitment to holding a constitutional referendum, calling the announcement a "bluff" and a tactic to gain time. Speaking at a Pastef membership card sale event, Sonko doubted the authorities' true intention to see the process through. He urged the opposition to demand a specific date for the referendum from the President to provide clarity to Senegalese citizens. Sonko also claimed that the public largely supports the new Constitution. Furthermore, he confidently stated that Pastef and its allies would win all upcoming elections, including the referendum, local elections, legislative elections, and the 2029 presidential election.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Senegalese goalkeeper Mory Diaw has issued an apology to supporters following the elimination of the Lions of Teranga in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. In an emotional message, Diaw acknowledged his share of responsibility for the team's exit, stating, "I am sorry. Sorry for not being able to take you further." He reflected on his childhood dream of representing Senegal on the global stage and recognized the harsh reality of a goalkeeper's role, where a single action can alter a match's outcome. Despite the disappointment, Diaw emphasized that this elimination should not overshadow the team's efforts and sacrifices. He expressed that the pain will linger but affirmed his unwavering love for the national jersey, promising to return with greater determination. Diaw concluded by thanking Senegalese fans for their support through both victories and defeats, looking forward to future challenges with the Lions.
Five people have died in Togo due to floods caused by heavy rains on June 28 and 29, according to a government statement released on Saturday evening. The Gulf of Guinea experienced particularly intense rainfall at the end of June, marking the beginning of the rainy season, which led to severe flooding in Togo, as well as in C么te d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Nigeria. The provisional toll in Togo includes five deaths, significant material damage, and major traffic disruptions. The floods also "strongly disrupted traffic," with many homes, particularly in the capital Lom茅, inundated. Some households were forced to evacuate and seek refuge with neighbors or relatives. The government stated that rescue operations, assistance to affected populations and communities, and securing at-risk areas are underway, along with support measures for affected families and households, in a spirit of national solidarity. Several political parties and civil society organizations have called on residents in unaffected areas to show solidarity with those impacted. The Dynamique pour la majorit茅 du peuple DMP, a coalition of opposition political parties and civil society organizations, criticized the recurring floods in a statement on July 2, emphasizing the urgent need to rethink urbanization and sanitation policies. Beyond Togo, these heavy rains have also caused fatalities in other countries, with 59 deaths reported in C么te d'Ivoire and twelve in Ghana.
First Lady Absa Faye endorsed the launch of the Impact'Elles association, an initiative aimed at strengthening women's solidarity and leadership. During the first edition, which focused on the mental health of women leaders, she advocated for greater consideration of this issue, deeming it essential for sustainable and inspiring leadership. In a statement released on her social media on July 4, 2026, she emphasized that the association "demonstrates women's desire to grow together, share experiences, and build solidarity networks for their success." The event saw the attendance of prominent government figures, including the Minister of Family, Social Action and Solidarity, and the Minister of Health and Public Hygiene. The First Lady noted that their presence "gave particular resonance to this meeting dedicated to a major issue of our time." The first edition, themed "Mental Health of Women Leaders: A Daily Challenge," highlighted a topic often overlooked. Absa Faye reiterated that "taking care of one's mental health is a priority, an essential condition for exercising sustainable and inspiring leadership." She commended the organizers and speakers for the quality of discussions, the rich panel, and the commitment of all who contributed to making the day a space for reflection, dialogue, and hope. She concluded by wishing longevity for the new association, hoping Impact'Elles would "support many women on the path to leadership and fulfillment."