President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal has unveiled a new cabinet that includes several members and allies of the Pastef party, despite an earlier declaration by Ousmane Sonko that his party would not participate in the administration.

The announcement follows the dismissal of Ousmane Sonko by President Faye—also a member of Pastef—who was subsequently elected President of the National Assembly. The shake-up comes at a time when Senegal faces severe financial strain, adding complexity to the political landscape.

Pastef’s decision to boycott

Ousmane Sonko, now head of the legislative body, had publicly stated that his party would not join the new government. His announcement came after a contentious meeting with President Faye, where key disagreements emerged regarding the role of the ruling party in the executive structure.

In a statement released on social media, Sonko explained that while some common ground was found, fundamental differences remained. “After presenting new proposals to the President, no favorable response was received,” the statement read. “As a result, PASTEF will not participate in the next government and will not be represented by any minister.”

Government composition and continuity

Despite the boycott, a few lesser-known allies from Sonko’s party were included in the new cabinet. Moussa Bala Fofana was appointed Minister of Urban Planning, while Yankhoba Diémé secured the position of Minister of Armed Forces. Several ministers from the previous administration were also retained, including Cheikh Diba (Finance), Moustapha Mamba Guirassy (Education), and Cheikh Tidiane Dièye (Sanitation).

Prime Minister Amadou Al Aminou Lô emphasized the importance of national unity, stating, “A statesman must always ensure that the nation and the Republic come before partisan considerations.”

A fractured alliance

The cabinet announcement marks a significant turning point in the relationship between President Faye and Ousmane Sonko, who were once close allies and co-leaders behind the 2024 presidential victory under the slogan *Sonko mooy Diomaye* (Sonko is Diomaye in Wolof).

Tensions between the two escalated over recent months, culminating in Sonko’s removal as Prime Minister in late May. Since then, Sonko has been elected President of the National Assembly, a position that solidifies his influence within the party, which holds a majority in parliament.

The rift began to surface in July 2025 when Sonko, then Prime Minister, criticized what he described as a “lack of authority” under President Faye’s leadership. By May 2026, the President openly accused Sonko of “excessive personalization” within the ruling party.