What initially appeared as isolated departures a few weeks ago has, in recent days, transformed into a significant exodus. From long-standing figures and emerging leaders to heads of public agencies, the roster of Pastef defectors grows daily. Behind this escalating trend, a clearer narrative emerges: the definitive break between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko, leader of the party and President of the National Assembly.

Having ascended to power together in the March 2024 transition, the two men had, until recently, formed the bedrock of the administration. However, this partnership, once hailed as a symbol of change, saw its definitive split with Ousmane Sonko’s removal from the Primature in May 2026, marking the culmination of months of discord between the Presidency and the Prime Minister’s office. While Sonko subsequently assumed the presidency of the National Assembly and maintained leadership of the party, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has actively consolidated control over the state apparatus, a key development in African politics.

One of the most telling indicators of this growing divide emerged in early June with the resignation of Minister Moussa Bala Fofana. Fofana, who had been reappointed for a third term as head of the Urban Planning portfolio, made his departure just days after Ousmane Sonko publicly criticized certain ministers for not adhering to the party’s directives. Fofana, for his part, asserted that his actions were in line with the Head of State’s instructions, while still expressing respect for his former mentor.

The new presidential party ignites further divisions

On July 3rd, President Faye took a decisive step, announcing the formation of a new unified presidential party. This initiative has definitively confirmed the complete break between the Presidency and the founding party. On the ground, the “Diomaye Président” coalition is actively organizing to welcome new affiliations, a move closely watched across the continent press for its implications on Senegal’s political future.