Ousmane Sonko declares no Pastef members will join Senegal’s government

In a decisive move ahead of the government formation announcement, Ousmane Sonko, National Assembly President and leader of the Pastef party, has confirmed that no members from his party will be included in Senegal’s upcoming cabinet. The statement, shared on social media platforms, has intensified public anticipation as citizens await the official unveiling of the new ministerial team.
As the nation braces for the imminent government announcement, the No. 2 official in Senegal’s political hierarchy has sent a clear signal through a concise yet impactful statement. Ousmane Sonko’s declaration on social media read simply: “No ministers from the Pastef party.”
Government formation under scrutiny
The announcement comes at a critical juncture, with the country closely watching the composition of the new administration led by Prime Minister Ahmadou Al-Aminou Lô, appointed by President Bassirou Diomaye-Faye on May 25. While Sonko’s message provides an early indication of his party’s exclusion, neither the presidency nor the prime minister’s office has issued an official statement on the cabinet lineup.
Public speculation has been rife regarding potential ministerial appointments. Sonko’s intervention offers the first concrete insight into the strategic choices guiding this government formation process. The coming hours will reveal the full list of appointees, allowing observers to assess the implications of Sonko’s declaration and identify the individuals who will shape Senegal’s policy direction alongside Prime Minister Lô.