Senegal’s political upheaval: sonko’s potential return to the national assembly

A significant shift is underway in the Senegalese political landscape following the Sunday resignation of El Malick Ndiaye, the president of the National Assembly. This departure could clear the path for former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to assume leadership of the Parliament, mere days after his dismissal by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

In a statement posted on Facebook, El Malick Ndiaye cited his institutional vision and the nation’s best interests as the reasons behind his decision, offering no further specifics. A staunch ally of Sonko, Ndiaye had held the Assembly presidency since the Pastef party’s overwhelming victory in the 2024 legislative elections, where it secured 130 out of 165 seats.

Deputies are scheduled to convene on Tuesday for a plenary session. The agenda includes reviewing Ousmane Sonko’s reintegration as a deputy, followed by the election of a new National Assembly president. This development would substantially amplify the influence of the Pastef leader, who continues to command considerable popularity among a significant segment of the Senegalese populace, a key aspect of African politics English.

Just last Friday, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye terminated his Prime Minister’s tenure, signaling a political rupture between the two men who had jointly ascended to power in April 2024. Barred from contesting the presidential election due to a judicial conviction, Ousmane Sonko had wholeheartedly endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s candidacy under the widely recognized slogan, « Diomaye Moy Sonko ».

For several months, the underlying tensions between the two prominent figures had become increasingly public. Sonko, notably, had criticized the head of state for a perceived lack of authority and voiced concerns over the slow pace of legal proceedings against officials from the previous administration of Macky Sall, who faced accusations of corruption.

Conversely, President Faye had expressed unease regarding Sonko’s expanding role within the government and the ruling party. The rift deepened further after the former Prime Minister made fresh criticisms concerning the management of political funds during a session at the National Assembly.

Despite his removal from the government, Ousmane Sonko maintains a powerful political presence. Hundreds of his supporters gathered spontaneously outside his Dakar residence last Friday evening, effectively transforming his dismissal into a powerful demonstration of popular backing, echoing sentiments often seen in Africa news across the continent press.

President Faye now faces the critical task of appointing a new Prime Minister, a nominee who will require parliamentary approval amidst an increasingly uncertain political climate in Senegal.