Senator Al Aminou Lo takes aim at outgoing PM Ousmane Sonko in primature handover
During his inauguration speech, newly appointed Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo emphasized the urgency of centering government action on national interest while acknowledging past consultations with his predecessor, Ousmane Sonko. This carefully crafted political positioning underscores mounting tensions within the executive branch, demanding a renewed commitment to national unity.
Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lô, widely known as Al Aminou Lo, officially assumed leadership of the Primature, outlining his administration’s strategic priorities. His highly anticipated address followed the formal validation of Senegal’s new executive team by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, with a clear alignment to the ‘Diomaye Président’ project and Senegal Vision 2050.
The Prime Minister stressed the need to ground public policy in measurable outcomes, institutional coherence, and national mobilization. He unveiled a 30-member cabinet described as a ‘mission-driven government,’ balancing political representation with technical expertise.
In a move interpreted as both diplomatic and deliberate, Al Aminou Lo acknowledged consulting extensively with all stakeholders—including Ousmane Sonko, leader of the Pastef party—before finalizing the cabinet. This remark comes amid heightened political debate over the absence of Pastef ministers in the new government.
Without naming names, certain remarks in his speech were widely seen as subtle yet pointed messages to Sonko. By championing the supremacy of national interest over partisan interests, the Prime Minister asserted that ‘the Nation and the Republic must always transcend political divisions.’ Analysts view this stance as a calibrated response to the ongoing transition tensions.
Consistent with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s agenda, Al Aminou Lo emphasized the urgency of delivering on promises of a ‘sovereign, fair, and prosperous Senegal.’ He called for mobilizing all national talents—including those in the diaspora—to accelerate implementation of key public policies.
On the structural front, the Prime Minister announced several reforms to improve government efficiency. Notably, the Ministry of Energy, Petroleum, and Mines was reorganized, with mineral resources transferred to a newly created Department of Geology. Additionally, the government spokesperson was elevated to full ministerial status, signaling a push for stronger institutional communication.
Al Aminou Lo concluded by pledging a new era of governance rooted in discipline, coordination, and performance. In his words, this shift aims to convert ambition into tangible results for the Senegalese people.