Senegal’s new government unveiled without ousmane sonko’s party

Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ahmadou Al Amine Mohamed Lô, on Monday evening unveiled the composition of a new 30-member government. Notably, this cabinet does not include representatives from the PASTEF-Les Patriotes party, despite its majority presence in the National Assembly.

This executive reshuffle emerges amidst a period of national political realignment, marked by the integration of numerous technocratic and political figures into the new team. Hours before the official list was published, former Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko had publicly stated that members of his political formation would not participate in the incoming government.

Outlining the strategic direction for the new cabinet, the Senegalese Prime Minister characterized it as a “government of mission with an obligation for results.” He emphasized its foundation on both political and technocratic expertise, while also giving significant prominence to youth and women within its ranks.

Furthermore, he specified that the government’s approach would feature a revised methodology, focusing on institutional coherence and leveraging national talents, including those within the diaspora.

The new governmental structure sees the re-appointment of several key ministers from the previous administration. These include Cheikh Diba for Economy, Cheikh Niane for Foreign Affairs, Cheikh Tidiane Dièye for Hydraulics and Sanitation, and Moustapha Guirassy for National Education, all retaining their significant portfolios.

Similarly, other prominent Senegalese officials such as Ibrahima Sy in Health, Moussa Bala Fofana in Urban Planning, Yankhoba Diémé in Armed Forces, Déthié Fall in Infrastructure, and Bakary Sarr in Communication will continue in their respective roles.

This significant restructuring follows the decision by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye to appoint Ahmadou Al Aminou Lô as Prime Minister on May 26. Mr. Lô steps into the role previously held by Ousmane Sonko, who has since been elected as President of the Senegalese National Assembly.