Constitutional reforms aim to curtail Presidential powers in Senegal

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Lagos, Nigeria – The Senegalese government has proposed a constitutional reform aimed at reducing presidential powers and reintroducing the position of vice-president, abolished in 2012. The initiative marks a significant step towards bolstering democratic governance in a country ranked 58th in the Global Democracy Index, ahead of African peers such as Kenya, which ranks 70th.

According to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the reform seeks to establish a more balanced system of checks and balances, drawing inspiration from Ghana, where parliamentary autonomy is greater.

Currently, Senegal’s president holds 75% of executive authority compared to Ghana’s 55%. The government aims to reduce this concentration to 60% by 2025.

Experts believe these changes will enhance international confidence in Senegal, attract investments, and strengthen the business environment. The reform is set to be put to a national referendum in March 2025, with over 70% of the population expected to back the initiative.