DAKAR, Senegal — The ruling PASTEF party in Senegal appears set to secure a parliamentary majority following the recent elections, as key opposition figures acknowledged their defeat on Monday. The elections were critical in determining whether President Bassirou Diomaye Faye can implement the ambitious reforms he promised during his campaign.

Former president Macky Sall, who leads the main opposition Takku Wallu coalition, extended his congratulations to PASTEF via a statement on the X social media platform. Earlier, several prominent opposition leaders had already admitted their loss shortly after the polls closed on Sunday.

The official announcement detailing the results and the number of seats held by each party is expected later this week. Prior to the elections, PASTEF occupied 56 of the 165 seats in the National Assembly, while Sall’s coalition maintained a narrow majority with 83 seats.

Elected in March on a platform focused on anti-establishment sentiments, Faye expressed that the absence of a parliamentary majority had hampered his efforts to undertake the reforms he promised. These reforms include initiatives to combat corruption, reassess fishing licenses granted to foreign companies, and ensure a larger portion of the country’s natural resources benefits the local population.

Despite some instances of clashes between supporters during the electoral campaign, the voting process in this West African nation known for its stability remained calm and peaceful.

Faye, at just 44 years old, emerged as Africa’s youngest elected leader in March, mere weeks after being released from prison. His ascent to power signifies a growing discontent among the youth in Senegal, a feeling echoed in various African nations, where many leaders are seen as entrenched in power for extended periods.

With over 60% of Senegal’s population under the age of 25 and a staggering 90% employed in informal sectors, the nation has been grappling with soaring inflation rates in recent years, which have made daily life challenging for many citizens.

Additionally, Senegal has become a significant source for irregular migration towards Europe, with thousands of individuals attempting perilous journeys annually aboard precarious artisanal fishing vessels, in search of better economic prospects.