A wave of resignations from key figures within Pastef, including long-standing supporters of Ousmane Sonko, signals a profound shift in Senegal’s political landscape. This exodus coincides with the establishment of a new presidential party, marking a significant realignment in the nation’s governance.
What initially appeared as isolated departures just weeks ago has rapidly escalated into a substantial drain of talent. Distinguished cadres, rising young leaders, and directors of public agencies are increasingly severing ties with Pastef. Behind this growing cascade of resignations lies an increasingly clear explanation: a definitive split between the President of the Republic, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, and the President of the National Assembly and party leader, Ousmane Sonko.
Having ascended to power together in the March 2024 elections, these two prominent figures previously formed the bedrock of the new administration. However, this partnership, once hailed as a symbol of political change in African politics, experienced a rupture formalized by Ousmane Sonko’s removal from the Primature in May 2026. This dismissal was the culmination of months of simmering disagreements between the Presidency and the Prime Minister’s office. While Ousmane Sonko has since taken on the role of President of the National Assembly, retaining leadership of Pastef, Bassirou Diomaye Faye has diligently worked to assert his authority over the state apparatus.
One of the most striking indications of this growing divide emerged in early June with the resignation of Minister Moussa Bala Fofana. He had been reappointed for a third term to lead the Urbanism portfolio, only days after Ousmane Sonko publicly admonished certain ministers for failing to adhere to the party’s directives. Moussa Bala Fofana, for his part, maintained that his actions were guided by the Head of State’s instructions, while still expressing respect for his former mentor.
Constitutional reforms ignite the political divide
On July 3, President Faye took a decisive step, announcing the formation of a new unified presidential party. This initiative has unequivocally affirmed the notion of a complete separation between the Presidency and the founding party. On the ground, the “Diomaye Président” coalition is now actively organizing itself to welcome new adherents and consolidate its structure, signaling a new chapter in Senegal’s political journey.
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