Senegal’s Ousmane Sonko outlines reasons behind his departure from premiership

Ousmane Sonko, former Prime Minister of Senegal and leader of the PASTEF-Les Patriotes party, has publicly shared his account of the events leading to his removal from office. In a statement, he detailed conversations he claims to have had with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye prior to his dismissal.

Key moments that sealed his fate

Sonko pinpoints May 25 as the turning point. He recounts being summoned by the Head of State following a speech he delivered at the National Assembly, where tensions reportedly escalated due to his remarks.

The former head of government asserts that the president expressed difficulties in continuing their partnership, citing the sharp reactions triggered by his parliamentary statements. Despite the gravity of their discussion, Sonko maintains it unfolded in a routine manner before the inevitable conclusion was reached.

A resignation long in the making

The political leader insists he had repeatedly raised the possibility of leaving the government after the legislative elections. He claims to have proposed to the president two potential paths: returning to his role as a lawmaker to pave the way for a new Prime Minister, or engaging in further negotiations to find a mutually acceptable solution.

According to his version, the president had consistently dismissed these suggestions up until their final meeting.

Growing rifts in the executive branch

Sonko reveals he had noticed warning signs of a brewing crisis between the two branches of government for weeks. He claims to have raised these concerns with the president during multiple encounters, though no concrete steps were taken to address their parting ways ahead of their last discussion.

He also denies endorsing any official narrative portraying his departure as a harmonious transition.

The abrupt dismissal

The former Prime Minister states the president intended to resume talks after a planned visit to the Archbishop of Dakar for Pentecost celebrations. However, Sonko claims he received a late-night message informing him of the decision against him.

Minutes later, the official announcement of his removal was made by the Secretary-General of the Presidency, confirming his exit from the government.

What lies ahead for Senegal’s political landscape

With his return to the National Assembly, Ousmane Sonko is poised to embark on a new chapter in his political journey. This development also marks a significant shift in his relationship with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, whose alliance had previously ushered in political change in Senegal.

The former Prime Minister’s account sheds light on the unfolding dynamics between key figures in Senegal’s government, as observers closely monitor the shifting power dynamics within the administration.