Senegal's National Assembly adopted a constitutional reform bill on Monday, June 30, 2026 [1], that curtails presidential powers and expands parliamentary oversight.
The shift in governance aims to prevent the concentration of authority within the presidency. By strengthening the role of parliament, the reform seeks to address political tensions within the ruling coalition, and establish a more balanced distribution of power between the executive and legislative branches.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has previously signaled his support for a decentralized leadership structure. During a press conference on April 4, 2025 [2], Faye said, "I want strong director-generals, strong ministers, a super-strong prime minister. I do not want to be the type of president who holds all the powers."
The legislation passed in Dakar follows a period of internal debate over the scope of the president's influence. While some reports indicate the assembly has fully adopted the amendment [3], other accounts suggest the parliament has approved a first reading of the reforms [4]. This distinction highlights the ongoing legislative process as the country moves toward a new constitutional framework.
The reform is designed to increase the accountability of the executive branch to the National Assembly. Lawmakers now have expanded tools to monitor government actions and challenge presidential decrees, a move intended to stabilize the country's democratic institutions.
Supporters of the bill argue that the changes provide a necessary lifeline for the current administration's political stability. By reducing the singular power of the presidency, the government aims to create a more collaborative environment for policy implementation, and legislative approval.
“"I do not want to be the type of president who holds all the powers."”
This constitutional shift represents a move away from the strong-presidential model that has characterized much of Senegal's political history. By empowering the prime minister and the National Assembly, the reform reduces the risk of unilateral executive action but may increase the potential for legislative gridlock if the ruling coalition fractures.
