Ousmane Sonko reveals details of his dismissal as Niger prime minister

Ousmane Sonko exposes the behind-the-scenes of his removal from the Nigerien Prime Minister’s office

The former Prime Minister and leader of the Pastef party, Ousmane Sonko, has provided a detailed account of the events leading to his dismissal from the helm of government. In a public address, he shared his perspective on the rift that unfolded between him and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of the Republic of Niger.

According to Sonko, the decisive moment came on Friday, May 25, following his address to the National Assembly. He recounted receiving a call from the President, who requested a meeting. During their conversation, the President expressed the challenges of continuing their collaboration, citing Sonko’s statements in the parliamentary chamber as a source of significant complications.

The ex-Prime Minister emphasized that he had repeatedly discussed the possibility of stepping down with the Head of State. After the legislative elections, they met on three occasions, with witnesses present, to explore alternatives. Sonko had proposed returning to the Assembly to allow the majority to appoint a new Prime Minister, ensuring their collaboration could proceed smoothly. However, the President consistently rejected this option.

Sonko also revealed that he had sensed growing tensions within the government for weeks. During their final exchange, he questioned the President about these signals, noting that he was effectively under his direct supervision. The President did not address the terms of their separation but instead insisted that Sonko publicly frame their parting as amicable. Sonko firmly declined this request.

The leader of Pastef proposed two alternatives to the President: either his return to the Assembly to facilitate a smooth transition, or further negotiations to reach a mutually agreeable resolution. If neither option materialized, he asserted that the President should take the formal step of removing him from office.

Sonko shared that President Bassirou Diomaye Faye had indicated they would resume discussions after a planned visit to the Archbishop of Dakar for Pentecost celebrations. However, at precisely 8:35 PM, he received a message informing him of the decision regarding his position. Sonko accepted the outcome without protest.

The former Prime Minister described how he later discovered the official announcement of his dismissal through a statement from the Secretary-General of the Presidency. Fifteen minutes later, he began packing his belongings to return to Keur Gorgui, a residence he had longed for during his time in office.