Dakar — In a decisive move that has sent shockwaves through Senegal’s political landscape, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has terminated the appointment of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and his entire cabinet through a presidential decree issued late Friday evening. The announcement, delivered by the Secretary-General of the Presidency, Oumar Samba Ba, during a televised address, marks the culmination of months of escalating tensions between the head of state and his once-close political ally.
According to the official statement, President Faye “has ended the functions of Mr. Ousmane Sonko as Prime Minister, thereby also concluding the mandates of all ministers and state secretaries within the government.” The outgoing officials have been instructed to handle only urgent and current administrative matters until a new administration is formed.
Ousmane Sonko, a prominent opposition figure under former President Macky Sall’s administration (2012–2024), was barred from contesting the February 2024 presidential election after being convicted of defamation, which stripped him of his civil rights. His disqualification sparked nationwide protests against President Sall’s potential bid for a third term. In response, Sonko endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye as his successor, a decision that ultimately propelled Faye to victory in the election.
Since taking office, however, the relationship between President Faye and his former mentor had deteriorated significantly. Sonko’s charismatic leadership and strong influence, particularly among Senegal’s disillusioned youth, played a pivotal role in mobilizing support for the Faye campaign. His panafricanist rhetoric resonated deeply with voters, especially in the lead-up to the 2024 election and during prolonged confrontations with the outgoing administration.
Sonko’s immediate reaction to his dismissal was a message of relief on his Facebook account, stating, “Alhamdoulillah. Tonight, I will sleep peacefully in the Keur Gorgui district,” referring to his residence in Dakar. Shortly after the announcement, videos circulated on social media showing his supporters gathering outside his home, chanting his name in defiance and solidarity.
The rift between the president and prime minister had become increasingly visible in recent months, casting doubt on their ability to maintain a functional working relationship. Adding to the complexity of the situation is Sonko’s party’s overwhelming dominance in Senegal’s National Assembly, following a landslide victory in the November 2024 legislative elections.