Ousmane Sonko breaks silence after cabinet reshuffle in Senegal

Following his departure from the government and the announcement of a new cabinet excluding representatives from his party, PASTEF, Ousmane Sonko has finally broken his silence. Addressing journalists, the opposition leader did not hold back, openly questioning the leadership of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye while carefully distinguishing personal from political tensions.

Sonko’s remarks underscored a growing frustration with communication barriers between him and the head of state. « The President has chosen not to engage in dialogue with me, despite engaging with others, » he declared, highlighting what he perceives as a troubling pattern of exclusion.

Reflecting on their shared political history, Sonko emphasized the deep ties that once bound their movements together. « We once stood side by side, but now the President seems to have taken a different path, » he stated, using a local proverb to underscore the shift in dynamics. Despite the visible tensions, he was quick to clarify that their relationship had never deteriorated into outright confrontation.

« We have never exchanged harsh words face to face, » Sonko reassured, adding that his party does not view itself as an adversary of the presidency. Instead, he redirected attention to the pressing issues affecting everyday Senegalese citizens. « The real enemies are not political opponents—they are soaring food prices, unreliable transportation, and the daily struggles of the people. »

The remarks come at a pivotal moment, as Senegal’s political landscape undergoes significant reshaping. The absence of PASTEF in the new government has raised eyebrows, fueling speculation about the future of cooperation—or conflict—between Sonko’s party, the presidency, and the broader executive team.