Dramatic departures from key figures within Pastef, including former supporters of Ousmane Sonko, are revealing deep fractures in Senegal’s political landscape following the establishment of a new presidential party.
Escalating departures signal growing discontent
The exodus from Pastef, once unthinkable, has now escalated into a full-blown crisis. Historical figures, young activists, and heads of public agencies have been resigning in droves. What began as isolated exits has rapidly transformed into a sweeping wave of disaffiliation, signaling a profound rift between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and the party’s leader, Ousmane Sonko.
These departures follow months of mounting tension between the Presidency and the party leadership. The situation reached a breaking point in May 2026 when Ousmane Sonko was removed from his post as Prime Minister, a move widely seen as a direct challenge to his influence within the party and government.
Minister’s resignation exposes widening divide
One of the most striking examples of this divide emerged in early June when Minister Moussa Bala Fofana stepped down from his ministerial position. His departure came shortly after Sonko publicly criticized ministers for failing to align with the party’s directives. Despite the fallout, Fofana maintained respectful language toward his former mentor, underscoring the complex loyalties at play.
Constitutional reforms trigger final rupture
On July 3, President Faye took a decisive step by announcing the creation of a new presidential party, further cementing the idea that the break with Pastef is now irreversible. Behind the scenes, the coalition “Diomaye Président” is actively consolidating its structure to welcome new members and solidify its base.
