Senegal’s president removes prime minister ousmane sonko

Mounting tensions between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his influential Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko have culminated in Sonko’s dismissal, just months after their joint ascension to power.

This decision follows months of political friction between these two leaders, who swept into office in April 2024 on a wave of immense popular hope. Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye officially parted ways with his Prime Minister and former political ally, Ousmane Sonko, on Friday, May 22. In an announcement read on national television by the presidency’s secretary-general, the President declared the termination of “the functions of Mr. Ousmane Sonko, Prime Minister, and consequently those of the ministers and secretaries of state who are members of the government.” The statement further clarified that “the outgoing government members are tasked with handling current affairs.” No immediate details were provided regarding the appointment of a new Prime Minister.

Since President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s election, discord had steadily grown between him and his former mentor, the charismatic Prime Minister. Sonko’s significant influence was instrumental in propelling the duo to power. As a fierce opponent of former President Macky Sall (2012-2024), Ousmane Sonko was barred from running in the 2024 presidential election due to a defamation conviction that resulted in the loss of his civic rights. He subsequently designated Bassirou Diomaye Faye as his replacement in the race.

However, in early May, President Faye openly criticized his Prime Minister’s “excessive personalization” within the ruling party. He stated in a televised interview, “As long as he remains Prime Minister, it is because he benefits from my confidence. When that is no longer the case, there will be a new Prime Minister.” Ousmane Sonko immediately reacted to his dismissal on Friday via his Facebook account, writing, “Alhamdoulillah. Tonight I will sleep with a light heart in Keur Gorgui city,” referring to his residential district in Dakar.