The political landscape in Sénégal has taken another sharp turn as former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko openly confronted his successor, Al Aminou Lo, in a series of pointed remarks that underscored escalating tensions within the government.
During a press briefing, Sonko made no attempt to conceal his irritation over recent statements from Lo, issuing several veiled warnings that signal a growing rift between the two figures.
Sonko calls for restraint and focus on technocracy
Sonko began by urging Al Aminou Lo to adhere strictly to his stated role as a technocrat. « I advise him to stick to the numbers. He calls himself a technocrat—so he should limit himself to technocracy, » Sonko declared, emphasizing the need for measured decision-making in governance.
Accusations of fueling political strife
He went further, alleging that Lo had played a significant role in exacerbating tensions between the ruling Pastef party and the presidency. « We know the part he played in the problems between Pastef and the president. Until now, we’ve refrained from revealing all the details. He should calm down, » Sonko warned, hinting at undisclosed information that could further complicate the situation.
Criticizing Lo’s public remarks during the announcement of the new government lineup, Sonko remarked, « I heard him yesterday, during the government’s unveiling, giving unsolicited advice. Perhaps he should start by applying those lessons to himself. »
Veiled threats of undisclosed evidence
In a particularly firm tone, Sonko suggested that he possesses information that has yet to be made public. « We know everything. We’ve chosen to keep certain facts quiet, but we won’t tolerate being provoked, » he asserted, leaving the door open for future revelations that could reshape the political narrative.