Senegalese react to President Bassirou Faye's decision to dissolve parliament: Video
Senegalese citizens have voiced mixed reactions after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced the dissolution of the opposition-dominated parliament, setting a new legislative election date for November 17.
The move, aimed at securing a legislative majority to advance the president's agenda, has sparked both approval and criticism across the country.
Many Senegalese, like Niokhor Ndong, a retired resident, see the decision as a positive step towards better governance. "I think it's a wise decision," Ndong remarked. Adding that “the dissolution of this Assembly is perfectly normal. So, I really agree with those who opted, not opted, but opted for the dissolution of such a House. I want us to have a proper legislature, no more left-right splits, because that makes this country uncomfortable. So really, we want a healthy Assembly.”
Similarly, Dakar resident Malick Ndione believes the dissolution was inevitable. I think it's a logical decision, insofar as to enable them to lead well, they need to have the majority in the Assembly on their side, otherwise, they can't lead. They need help and support."
Support for President Faye's decision also came from shopkeepers like Khadim Gueye, who emphasised the importance of a cooperative parliament. "We congratulate the President for dissolving the National Assembly. Without a majority, his projects won't pass. We hope for real MPs in the next elections who will address the concerns of the Senegalese people."
However, not all reactions were supportive.
Latyr Dia, another shopkeeper, criticised the timing of the dissolution. "Perhaps this decision suits the state, but the President should have considered the concerns of the people. The MPs were democratically elected, and they should have been allowed to finish their term," he told the AFP.
