Senegal's Socialist Party Faces Critical Crossroads After 2024 Elections
Following the presidential election of March 24, 2024, and the subsequent legislative elections, the Socialist Party (PS) of Senegal is undertaking a period of introspection and reform. The party acknowledges a significant decline in its electoral support and is seeking to revitalize its base and relevance in the evolving political landscape.
Electoral Shift and the Need for Introspection
The 2024 presidential election marked a shift in Senegalese politics, confirmed by the early legislative elections of November 17, 2024. Ousmane Faye, National Secretary for ICT of the PS, emphasizes the need for the Socialist Party to acknowledge its electoral marginalization, resulting from its alliance with the APR and BBY over the past twelve years.
A comprehensive internal review, including seminars conducted over the past two years, has diagnosed issues within the party's structure, affiliated movements, alliances, communication, and finances. The review is now complete, and the focus must shift to concrete action.
A Plan for Renewal and Political Re-engagement
The Socialist Party recognizes the urgent need to address the concerns of Senegalese citizens who feel disenfranchised by the current political system. Ousmane Faye is advocating for an immediate plan of action that focuses on political animation at the grassroots level, culminating in a constituent congress.
- Develop an immediate action plan to revitalize political engagement.
- Hold a constituent congress to reform the party's structure and platform.
- Implement concrete measures after ratification by party members.
Rebuilding the Socialist Party for the Future
To achieve a genuine resurgence, the Socialist Party must regain its unity and identify the reasons for its progressive marginalization. This includes renewing its tradition of innovative debate to build a fresh political offering rooted in the daily realities of the Senegalese population, while upholding left-wing values. A new strategy is required to unite the socialist family.
This ambitious roadmap requires a militant tool: a renewed Socialist Party led by a new generation. This new PS must be popular, mass-based, youthful, and deeply embedded in contemporary Senegalese society. It must be a party of active militants with a democratically reformed functioning.
A Call to Action for Transformation
The Socialist Party aims to reclaim its role as a beacon of hope and an instrument for popular reconquest. This involves appealing to disenfranchised youth, restoring pride to rural and working-class communities, and regaining the respect of intellectuals. This ambition demands an unprecedented metamorphosis.
Renewing the PS is essential for reuniting the left and winning back lost, disillusioned, or excluded voters. It's also about reviving the cherished heritage of vibrant internal democracy, where the political direction is shaped with, not above, the party members. Ousmane Faye issues a call to action to all militants on the left who believe in the urgency of this transformation.
Ousmane Faye is committed to this ideal as the foundation for all future decisions, defending it at all costs to secure the Socialist Party's new place in the Senegal of tomorrow.
Ousmane Faye*, National Secretary for ICT of the PS, Member of the SEN and of the BP of the PS, President of the Movement AS/Jëf