Senegal political leaders unite to avert fresh crisis through dialogue
Breaking news.
Ousmane Sonko, newly elected Speaker of Senegal’s National Assembly, has extended an olive branch to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, urging political dialogue to prevent renewed instability. Despite deep ideological divides, Sonko’s party, Pastef, has pledged not to destabilize the government.
Sonko questions new government’s legitimacy
In his first public address since being removed from office on May 22, Ousmane Sonko criticized the government formed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Speaking at a press conference in Dakar, he declared, “A nation is serious business, and so is its government.” Sonko argued that the newly appointed cabinet lacks “any structured political legitimacy,” emphasizing that institutional power dynamics must be respected given Pastef’s overwhelming control of the National Assembly with 130 out of 165 seats.
Pastef commits to constructive governance support
While voicing strong reservations, Sonko affirmed that his party would not seek to topple the government. “If Pastef wanted, this government could fall within 72 hours. But we won’t take that path. We will support it,” he stated. The Assembly Speaker underscored the urgency of maintaining national stability to reassure investors and prevent further political turmoil.
Call for peaceful resolution amid rising tensions
Highlighting escalating tensions between former allies, Sonko issued a plea for “smart, constructive political dialogue.” He warned, “We must avoid plunging this country back into the chaos it endured between 2021 and 2024.” While condemning provocations against his supporters, he urged Senegalese youth to remain calm, stressing that “peace requires participation from all sides.”