The Senegalese presidency confirmed the dismissal late Friday, May 22, as President Bassirou Diomaye Faye relieved Ousmane Sonko of his duties as Prime Minister, along with the entire government. The announcement came via national television, delivered by the Secretary-General of the Presidency, Oumar Samba Ba, who stated that outgoing ministers would now handle current affairs until further notice.

A once-strong alliance crumbles

This move marks a dramatic fallout between two leaders who once stood united in Senegal’s political arena. In 2024, Ousmane Sonko, originally barred from presidential elections due to a judicial conviction, had strategically backed Bassirou Diomaye Faye as his replacement, propelling him to victory against the outgoing President Macky Sall.

Sonko’s charismatic panafricanist rhetoric and strong appeal among Senegal’s youth were instrumental in shaping the new administration. Yet, tensions between the two figures had steadily intensified over recent months, culminating in this decisive break.

Immediate reactions follow the dismissal

Within minutes of the announcement, Ousmane Sonko took to Facebook to respond: “Alhamdoulillah. Tonight, I will sleep with a light heart.” Social media soon flooded with videos showing his supporters rushing to his residence in Dakar, chanting his name in solidarity.

The removal of Sonko injects fresh uncertainty into Senegal’s political landscape, particularly as his party maintains a dominant hold over the National Assembly following the November 2024 legislative elections.