Senegal's president faces budget challenge after likely parliamentary win

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's Pastef party in Senegal is poised for a likely absolute majority in the legislative election, enabling him to pursue his ambitious 25-year reform agenda.

However, Faye's first major hurdle will be crafting a budget amidst a fiscal crisis.

With Senegal's sovereign debt rising and ongoing negotiations with the IMF, balancing the needs of his supporters with IMF requirements will be a challenge.

Analysts suggest that while Faye's victory could smooth the path for implementing reforms, addressing citizens' concerns over unemployment, rising costs, and public services will be crucial.

The IMF's support is conditional, with talks expected to extend into 2025.