The recent exodus of key figures from Pastef, including long-time supporters of Ousmane Sonko, has sent shockwaves through Senegal’s political sphere. What began as scattered departures has now snowballed into a full-blown crisis, reshaping the party’s future and the nation’s governance.
Once united by the historic 2024 election victory, the alliance between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Assembly President Ousmane Sonko has fractured irreparably. Their partnership, hailed as a symbol of democratic renewal, began unraveling months ago, culminating in Sonko’s removal from the Prime Minister’s office in May 2026. Though Sonko retained his role as party leader, Faye moved swiftly to consolidate control over state institutions.
The latest blow came when Minister Moussa Bala Fofana resigned in early June, just days after Sonko publicly criticized ministers for disregarding party directives. Fofana denied acting on presidential orders, instead expressing loyalty to his former mentor, Sonko.
Constitutional reform sparks further divisions
On July 3, President Faye escalated tensions by announcing the formation of a new unified presidential party. This decisive move confirmed widespread suspicions of a complete rupture between the presidency and the founding party. Meanwhile, the ‘Diomaye Président’ coalition has launched efforts to absorb defectors, signaling a strategic realignment in Senegal’s political landscape.