The PASTEF-Les Patriotes party, led by Ousmane Sonko, has officially withdrawn from Senegal’s new government formed under President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, citing disagreements over the executive’s structure. Yet, several ministers with close ties to Sonko have secured positions, sparking questions about the cabinet’s political alignment.
In a statement released on June 1, 2026, PASTEF-Les Patriotes declared it would not participate in the government, emphasizing irreconcilable differences with the president over the new administration’s organization. The party confirmed that none of its members would hold official roles in the cabinet.
Key figures from PASTEF’s sphere in the new government
The administration, helmed by Prime Minister Ahmadou Al-Aminou Lo, features several prominent figures whose careers and public profiles are closely linked to PASTEF or the political movement spearheaded by Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye during the 2024 presidential race.
The following ministers are widely recognized as part of this political ecosystem:
- Yankhoba Diémé – Minister of Armed Forces
- Cheikh Tidiane Dièye – Minister of Hydraulics and Sanitation
- Ibrahim Sy – Minister of Health and Public Hygiene
- Marie Angélique Mame Selbe Diouf – Minister of Family and Social Solidarity
- Déthié Fall – Minister of Infrastructure
These appointments suggest a continued influence of PASTEF-aligned voices within the executive branch, despite the party’s formal withdrawal. While some ministers, such as Cheikh Diba, Cheikh Niang, and Boubacar Camara, are viewed as technocrats or independent figures, their presence further complicates the political landscape.
More Stories
Senegal opposition challenges sonko’s parliamentary return at constitutional council
Chad’s digital transformation drive: n’djamena secures key tech partnerships in Washington
Mali’s economic outlook dims as moody’s shifts sovereign rating perspective