Sun Nov 17 18:34:56 UTC 2024: ## Senegal Holds Tense Legislative Elections Amidst Economic Concerns
**DAKAR, Senegal (November 18, 2024)** — Senegal held legislative elections on Sunday, November 17th, with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye hoping for a decisive victory to advance his ambitious reform agenda. The elections followed a heated campaign marred by clashes between rival political factions, raising concerns about potential unrest. This follows a period of significant political violence in the country earlier this year.
Over 7 million registered voters cast ballots for candidates representing 41 parties vying for the 165 seats in the National Assembly. Key voter concerns centered on the struggling economy and high unemployment, particularly impacting Senegal’s large youth population. President Faye’s government faces challenges including slower-than-expected economic growth and a larger-than-anticipated budget deficit, revealed in a September government audit. This deficit, significantly higher than previously reported, has stalled a $1.9 billion IMF program agreed upon in June 2023.
A strong majority in the National Assembly is crucial for Faye’s government to implement necessary reforms. His Pastef party faces stiff competition from an unexpected alliance between two opposition parties, including the Republic party (APR) led by former Prime Minister Macky Sall. Two smaller opposition coalitions are also contesting the elections, one led by Dakar’s mayor, Barthelemy Dias, who has experienced friction with Pastef supporters.
Election results are pending.
First Piper 