Sénégal political shake-up as sonko removed from office

Sénégal’s Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko dismissed amid deepening political divides

The political landscape in Sénégal remains turbulent after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced the dismissal of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. The decision came swiftly following a heated exchange in the National Assembly, where Sonko openly criticized the existence of political funds. This move marks a significant shift in the country’s leadership dynamics.

Just weeks prior, President Faye had sought to calm speculation about an institutional crisis. In a televised interview, he reassured the public, stating, “He is my Prime Minister. As long as he holds the position, it is because he enjoys my full confidence. The moment that changes, he will be replaced.” Yet, Ousmane Sonko’s response the following day underscored the growing rift. Speaking to supporters, he emphasized that the Pastef party’s ideology transcends personal ambitions, framing it as a movement rooted in sacrifice and national service.

In a parallel move, President Faye appointed Me Abdoulaye Tine as the new Presidential Spokesperson, replacing Ousseynou Ly—a figure closely aligned with Sonko. Tine’s role also includes heading the coalition’s senior leadership team, signaling a strategic realignment within the Diomaye Président alliance. Meanwhile, Ousseynou Ly publicly reaffirmed his loyalty to the Pastef project, calling it a beacon of hope for a sovereign, equitable, and prosperous Sénégal.

The rift between the two leaders centers on the future of the Diomaye Président coalition. While Sonko advocates for its dissolution, President Faye insists on preserving the alliance, which played a pivotal role in securing his 2024 election victory. These tensions unfold against a backdrop of economic strain, with public debt nearing 132% of GDP and credit ratings repeatedly downgraded due to constrained access to international markets and pending negotiations with the International Monetary Fund.

This development underscores the unraveling of a decade-long political partnership. Ousmane Sonko, barred from contesting the 2024 presidential race, had backed Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the Pastef candidate. Faye won decisively in the first round with over 54% of the vote, defeating his opponent, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba.