Pastef’s Ndiaye, 41, Elected as President of Senegal’s National Assembly

Malick Ndiaye of Pastef-Les Patriotes has been elected the President of the Senegal National Assembly on Monday. Ndiaye’s victory cemented his status as a key figure in the nation’s governance showing the growing dominance of Pastef in Senegal politics.

With a commanding 130 seats in parliament—comprising 29 from proportional representation and 101 from majority districts—Pastef’s victory in the national election provided the party with a comfortable majority to push forward its legislative agenda.

Ndiaye’s elevation further solidified Pastef’s influence, making him the second-most important figure in the state hierarchy and placing him at the helm of critical national debates and reforms.

Ndiaye’s rise to the presidency of the National Assembly necessitated his resignation as Minister of Land Infrastructure and Land and Air Transport, a position he had held with distinction.

His letter of resignation was read during the opening session by Alla Kane, the oldest member of parliament, addressing concerns about the compatibility of his ministerial duties with his new legislative responsibilities.

The election process, while largely smooth, was momentarily questioned by Pastef member Guy Marius Sagna, who raised procedural concerns.

However, these were resolved, allowing the session to proceed without disruption. Ndiaye’s prior role as the party’s spokesperson had already positioned him as a prominent advocate for Pastef’s values and policies, paving the way for his ascension.

Ndiaye’s election to this role comes with high expectations. As President of the National Assembly, he will be instrumental in reinforcing the institution’s role as a pillar of Senegalese democracy. He is tasked with steering the legislative body through debates and ensuring that its operations reflect the will of the people.

Earlier, former President of Senegal Macky Sall, elected as a Member of Parliament in the early legislative elections, announced he will not take his seat in the National Assembly.

In accordance with the commitment I made on this subject, I will resign from my mandate as deputy at the opening of the next legislature, so that the legal consequences can be drawn,” Sall stated in a press release shared on X on Friday.

According to Maliweb, Sall’s participation in the elections was aimed at limiting the ruling party’s power in parliament.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, both from the ruling camp, had sought a legislative majority to deliver on campaign promises, including improving accountability.

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