Senegal’s political upheaval: president faye removes prime minister sonko

A significant political development has unfolded in Senegal. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye announced late Friday the dismissal of his Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, amidst escalating political tensions within the West African nation.

President Faye officially terminated the tenure of Prime Minister Sonko and his entire cabinet on Friday evening. The announcement was broadcast nationwide by Oumar Samba Ba, the Secretary General of the Presidency. A presidential decree stipulated that the outgoing ministers are now tasked with managing “current affairs” until new appointments are made.

From political ally to government rival

This decision marks a dramatic divergence between the two prominent figures who had jointly ascended to power in 2024. Ousmane Sonko, having been legally barred from contesting the presidential election, had previously endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the substitute candidate to challenge then-incumbent President Macky Sall.

Fueled by substantial popularity among Senegal’s youth and an assertive pan-Africanist agenda, Sonko played a crucial role in securing the victory of the current administration.

Nevertheless, for several months, growing disagreements and visible friction had characterized the relationship between the head of state and his former political mentor.

Sonko’s immediate response

Moments after the news of his dismissal broke, Ousmane Sonko took to Facebook, stating: « Alhamdoulillah. Ce soir je dormirai le cœur léger » (Praise be to God. Tonight I will sleep with a light heart).

Following his statement, various videos circulated across social media platforms, depicting throngs of supporters converging on his residence in Dakar, chanting his name in solidarity.

Sonko’s departure introduces a period of considerable political uncertainty for Senegal, especially given his party’s dominant position in the National Assembly since the legislative elections in November 2024.