The Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, concluded the duties of his Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, along with the entire government, on the evening of Friday, May 22. The announcement was broadcast on national television by Oumar Samba Ba, the Secretary-General of the Presidency. According to the presidential decree, the outgoing ministers have been instructed to manage “current affairs” until a new administration is formed.

From political ally to government rival

This decision marks a dramatic divergence between the two political figures who together ascended to power in 2024. Ousmane Sonko, having been legally barred from contesting the presidential election, had designated Bassirou Diomaye Faye as his substitute candidate, challenging the incumbent President Macky Sall.

Fueled by substantial popularity among Senegalese youth and an assertive pan-Africanist message, Sonko played a pivotal role in securing the victory of the new leadership. However, over recent months, growing friction between the head of state and his former political mentor had become increasingly apparent.

Sonko’s swift response

Minutes after the announcement of his dismissal, Ousmane Sonko took to Facebook, posting: « Alhamdoulillah. Ce soir je dormirai le cœur léger » (Praise be to God. Tonight I will sleep with a light heart).

Immediately following his post, various videos circulated across social media platforms, depicting throngs of supporters converging on his residence in Dakar, chanting his name in solidarity.

Sonko’s departure ushers in a period of considerable political uncertainty for Sénégal, particularly given that his party has held a significant majority in the National Assembly since the legislative elections in November 2024.