Senegal transitioned into a one-party state under the leadership of President Léopold Sédar Senghor

In 1965, Senegal transitioned into a one-party state under the leadership of President Léopold Sédar Senghor. His party, the Senegalese Progressive Union (now known as the Socialist Party of Senegal), was the sole legally recognized political party, effectively stifling political pluralism until 1975. During this period, while Senghor maintained a level of tolerance towards opposition that was relatively uncommon among African leaders of the time, political activities were still limited. The political landscape began to shift in 1975 when Senghor permitted the establishment of two opposition parties: the African Independence Party, which embraced Marxist ideologies, and the Senegalese Democratic Party, which leaned towards liberalism. This move marked a significant change in Senegal's political dynamics, allowing for a more diverse political discourse and the gradual emergence of a multi-party system. Senghor's approach to governance and political opposition set a precedent in the region, highlighting the complexities of post-colonial leadership in Africa.