In a nationally televised address from the Republic Palace in Dakar, Oumar Samba Ba, Secretary-General of the Presidency, formally announced the termination of Ousmane Sonko‘s role as Prime Minister of Senegal. The decree also removed all government members from their positions.
The official statement read: « By Decree No. 2026-1128 of May 22, 2026, the President of the Republic, His Excellency Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, has terminated the functions of Mr. Ousmane Sonko as Prime Minister, and consequently, those of the ministers and secretaries of state who are members of the government. The outgoing government members are now tasked with handling current affairs », Oumar Samba Ba declared.
A series of growing tensions had emerged in recent months between President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and former mentor Ousmane Sonko. Sonko, a prominent opposition figure to the previous administration under Macky Sall, had initially been barred from running for president himself. He subsequently endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who assumed office in April 2024.
The political rift between the two leaders had intensified over recent months, marking a significant shift in Senegal’s governance landscape. As the nation adjusts to this unexpected development, further updates are expected to unfold in the coming days.
