Voting kicked off on Sunday in Senegal’s snap parliamentary elections, with the nation’s new leadership hoping for a decisive mandate to push through its ambitious reform agenda.
An AFP journalist observed dozens of voters waiting in line at a polling station in the capital, Dakar, as polling stations opened in the early morning hours.
“I hope that the ruling party, Pastef, wins a majority so they can effectively carry out their mandate,” said 56-year-old Pascal Goudiaby, highlighting unemployment as a key concern. “We need change.”
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who secured victory in March’s elections, campaigned on a platform of economic transformation, social justice, and a strong anti-corruption drive. His promises have resonated with the country’s large, youthful population, who are grappling with high inflation and persistent joblessness.
In September, Faye dissolved the National Assembly and called for snap elections, exercising his constitutional right to do so. The elections will see about 7.3 million registered voters choose 165 members of parliament for five-year terms.
Political analysts suggest that Senegalese voters have historically backed their presidential choice in parliamentary polls, making the ruling Pastef party the frontrunner in this race. Despite some tense moments leading up to the vote, violence has been limited.
Polling stations are set to close at 6:00 p.m. local time (1800 GMT), with initial projections for the new parliament expected as early as Monday morning.
AFP
