Ousmane Sonko has made a powerful return to Senegal’s political stage, securing the presidency of the National Assembly after his party, Pastef, won an overwhelming majority. This victory comes despite recent tensions with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, both members of the same political movement.

Sonko’s election was met with enthusiastic applause from his party’s 130 deputies in the 165-seat parliament. He replaces El Malick Ndiaye, who resigned on Sunday. The atmosphere outside Sonko’s residence in the Cité Keur Gorgui was electric, with supporters chanting his name in solidarity.

Nourdine Diallo, a disheartened party member, expressed deep disappointment over the rift between Sonko and Faye. “The president’s decision to dismiss the Prime Minister shattered our belief in their partnership. During the campaign, we chanted ‘Diomaye is Sonko—Sonko is Diomaye,’ and it wasn’t just rhetoric. We genuinely believed in their unity.”

Institutional showdown looms

The dismissal of Prime Minister Sonko followed his sharp criticism of government policies during a parliamentary session. Now, a high-stakes institutional conflict is unfolding. Tuesday’s National Assembly meeting will address two critical issues: Sonko’s reinstatement as deputy and the election of his successor as Assembly president.

El Hadj Malick Ndiaye, a loyal ally of Sonko, resigned on Sunday after Sonko’s removal. His departure has intensified the political crisis, with the opposition Takuu Walu group rejecting his resignation letter, citing procedural violations. Aïssata Tall Sall, the group’s president, has accused President Faye of orchestrating a constitutional coup and warned that Sonko could target Faye’s own position if no action is taken.

In a late-night move, Faye appointed Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lô, a former central bank executive and minister, as the new Prime Minister. Lô emphasized the need for national unity during this pivotal moment.

Sonko’s potential reinstatement has triggered a wave of resignations among party officials, signaling deep divisions within Pastef. Political analyst Malao Kanté warns of dire consequences, predicting parliamentary chaos and a potential vote of no confidence against the new Prime Minister. “Sonko represents the new face of opposition, but his party now holds a majority. This could paralyze governance and plunge the country into instability.”

As Senegal navigates this turbulent period, voices within the opposition urge prioritizing national interests over personal rivalries. Adama Fall, a Pastef political leader, framed the crisis as a test of maturity for the nation’s leadership.