Senegal finds itself deeper in political uncertainty following a dramatic weekend. On Sunday, El Malick Ndiaye formally stepped down from his role as President of the National Assembly.

In a statement shared on Facebook, the former Speaker—known to be a close ally of Ousmane Sonko—cited a “personal decision” driven by “the higher interest of the Nation,” though he provided no further clarification.

Ndiaye’s departure comes shortly after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye removed Sonko from office, a move that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Senegal.

Could Ousmane Sonko take the Speaker’s chair?

The resignation paves the way for a potential shift at the helm of the National Assembly, with Ousmane Sonko emerging as a leading candidate for the position. As the dominant figure in the ruling parliamentary majority, his party holds a commanding 130 out of 165 seats, following the November 2024 legislative elections.

Sonko, who was barred from running in the 2024 presidential race due to a prior conviction, played a pivotal role in propelling Bassirou Diomaye Faye to the presidency, backed by the popular slogan “Diomaye Moy Sonko.”

A presidency under strain

Tensions between Faye and Sonko had been escalating for months, culminating in an official rupture confirmed this past Friday evening. The unfolding crisis now raises critical questions about the President’s ability to govern and advance his reform agenda amid Senegal’s already strained economic conditions.

The coming days are expected to be pivotal in determining the future trajectory of Senegal’s government.