Senegal is heading for a national referendum after lawmakers approved a controversial constitutional bill aimed at reshaping the balance of power between the presidency and parliament.
The National Assembly passed the legislation on Monday by a wide margin amid a charged atmosphere marked by opposition resistance, heated exchanges inside the chamber, and clashes outside the parliamentary building. Security forces reportedly used tear gas to disperse protesters attempting to force their way into the premises, according to AFP journalists.
The reform, introduced by the ruling Pastef party, is intended to strengthen the authority of the legislature and the prime minister while reducing certain presidential powers. The party holds a dominant majority in parliament, controlling 130 of the 165 seats.
However, the move has deepened political tensions, with opposition groups and civil society organisations warning that the changes could weaken Senegal’s presidential system and concentrate influence within parliament and the executive’s allied leadership.
Ahead of the vote, Justice Minister Moussa Sarr informed lawmakers that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye would submit the approved text to a public referendum, underscoring the political sensitivity surrounding the reforms.
The debate itself was marked by disruption, including the forcible removal of an opposition MP after refusing to step down from the podium, followed by a walkout by opposition legislators.
Outside the chamber, tensions escalated further as around 50 protesters—mainly supporters of the former ruling party—gathered to challenge the proceedings. Some attempted to storm the National Assembly but were pushed back by security personnel, with reports of stone-throwing and several arrests.
Supporters of the reform argue it is designed to create a more balanced governance structure, while critics say it risks undermining presidential authority and destabilising the existing constitutional order.
The proposed changes will now be decided by voters in a referendum, setting the stage for a nationwide political contest over the future shape of Senegal’s democracy.
