Tensions grip Senegal’s political scene as resignation rumors swirl around Ousmane Sonko
The Senegalese political landscape is facing fresh turbulence following a journalist’s claim that Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko is set to resign, prompting an immediate response from PASTEF’s leadership and raising questions about information manipulation.
PASTEF leadership denies resignation claims amid rising party tensions
Amadou Ba, Senegal’s Minister of Culture and a key figure within the PASTEF party, swiftly addressed the unfolding controversy after journalist Madiambal Diagne suggested Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko would step down from his role. In a social media statement, Ba drew a direct connection between this claim and the recent circulation of an anonymous resignation letter—allegedly from a PASTEF activist—which had already been dismissed by party officials as fabricated.
Strategic information manipulation suspected
Ba emphasized that these developments are no coincidence, alleging that certain individuals are deliberately spreading misinformation to trigger defamation lawsuits. The ultimate goal, he argued, may be to bolster an asylum request by creating a narrative of political persecution.
The PASTEF leadership’s primary focus, however, remains the upcoming party congress, which is expected to shape the movement’s future direction. Despite repeated denials from multiple PASTEF officials, including those at the Prime Minister’s office and the presidency, the resignation rumor continues to fuel speculation.
No official confirmation of resignation claims
To date, no credible source within the government or the presidency has validated the claims made by Madiambal Diagne. The lack of official confirmation has only intensified scrutiny over the motives behind the rumor’s dissemination, further straining the political climate in Senegal.
