Within just four days of his removal as Prime Minister by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Ousmane Sonko has secured the top position in Senegal’s national assembly.
The parliamentary session unfolded under a cloud of political unrest, with opposition lawmakers boycotting the proceedings entirely. Critics have slammed the move as an unconstitutional power grab, amplifying tensions in the country’s already fragile political climate.
Despite recent public disagreements between Sonko and the President—both members of the Pastef party—the outgoing premier received overwhelming backing from his party’s lawmakers. With 130 seats out of 165, the ruling party dominates the assembly, ensuring Sonko’s swift rise to leadership.
His election as speaker signals a dramatic comeback to the forefront of Senegalese politics. As the results were announced, Sonko was met with enthusiastic applause from his party colleagues in the chamber.
He takes over from El Malick Ndiaye, who resigned from the role on Sunday.