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Senegal: President Faye dismisses Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and dissolves government
President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has dismissed Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko—his former close ally—and also dissolved the entire government, according to a presidential decree announced overnight. The move comes after a prolonged period of growing political tension between the two leaders.
A statement read on national television by the Secretary-General of the Presidency, Oumar Samba Ba, confirmed that President Faye had removed Ousmane Sonko from the position of Prime Minister, effectively suspending all ministers and state secretaries who made up the government.
The statement further indicated that outgoing government members would continue handling day-to-day affairs until a new cabinet is appointed.
Sonko had been appointed Prime Minister on April 2, 2024, shortly after his release from prison, and served in the role until his dismissal on May 22, 2026.
A former leading opposition figure against ex-President Macky Sall, who governed Senegal from 2012 to 2024, Sonko had been barred from contesting the February 2024 presidential election after being convicted of defamation. That decision triggered political unrest and protests across the country, particularly amid concerns that Sall might seek a third term.
After being blocked from running, Sonko endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye as his preferred successor in the presidential race. However, tensions between the two leaders reportedly escalated after Faye assumed office, despite their earlier political alliance.
Sonko, who enjoys strong support among Senegal’s youth for his pro-African unity and sovereignty rhetoric, remained a highly influential political figure even after becoming Prime Minister.
Following news of his dismissal, Sonko posted on Facebook saying: “Alhamdoulillah. Tonight I sleep with a peaceful heart in Keur Gorgui,” referring to his residence in Dakar.
Supporters were seen gathering outside his home shortly after the announcement, singing his name and expressing solidarity.
In recent months, disagreements between the President and Prime Minister had become increasingly public, raising questions about the stability of their partnership.
Despite his removal from government, Sonko’s political party, PASTEF, still holds a strong majority in Senegal’s National Assembly following a landslide victory in the November 2024 legislative elections.
