Senegal’s National Assembly overwhelmingly approved on Tuesday changes to the country’s electoral code, introducing provisions that could pave the way for Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to run in the 2029 presidential election.

Sonko, 51, was excluded from standing in the 2024 election following a conviction, which could potentially bar him again in 2029. His replacement, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, went on to win the presidency.

Since being appointed prime minister by President Faye, speculation has mounted that Sonko may seek the presidential seat in 2029.

The bill, introduced under an emergency procedure, was easily adopted by the National Assembly, which is dominated by Sonko’s Pastef party, with 128 votes in favour, 11 against and two abstentions.

Bill now awaits presidential assent

The legislation amends provisions that had previously disqualified Sonko from running for office, potentially removing a key legal obstacle to his candidacy.

The bill will now be sent to the president, who will decide whether to sign it into law. Opposition parties could also challenge the adopted bill at the Constitutional Council.

Separately, the presidency on Monday released draft reforms covering the constitution, electoral code, political parties and the constitutional court for public comment ahead of cabinet debates.