Following his re-election in February, Abdoulaye Wade is expected to remain in power over the forecast period, although tensions could arise within the ruling Parti democratique senegalais (PDS) over Mr Wade's succession. Given its parliamentary majority, the PDS-dominated government will be in a strong position to continue its donor-supported economic reform programme and the implementation of large infrastructure projects. However, Mr Wade and the goverment will also have to address persistent difficulties at the country's largest state-owned companies, which are hampering economic performance. Real GDP growth is expected to rise to 4.8% in 2008 and 5% in 2009, driven by stronger growth in phosphates, construction and services.