Ousmane Sonko urges political dialogue to maintain stability in Sénégal

Following his removal from the position of Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko is advocating for a meaningful exchange of ideas to prevent Sénégal from descending into a new period of instability. As tensions rise surrounding the cabinet formed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Sonko highlights the importance of open communication for the sake of national peace.

The leader of the majority Pastef party, recently dismissed from his governmental role, stated that his supporters intend to “accompany” the new administration. However, he urged the Senegalese head of state to engage in a “constructive dialogue” to ensure the country does not slide back into a crisis. This marks the first public address by Ousmane Sonko since President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, his long-term political partner, removed him from office on May 22. The separation followed deep-seated disagreements, particularly concerning the management of the nation’s significant public debt.

A call for political legitimacy and cooperation

During a press briefing held in Dakar, Ousmane Sonko—who was elected President of the Assemblée nationale on May 26—explained that the President found several of his recent policy positions to be problematic. Following this rift, President Faye appointed a new 30-member government on Monday, a move that Sonko pointedly criticized. He questioned the political foundation of the new cabinet, suggesting that forming a government requires a more serious and structured approach.

Sonko emphasized that Sénégal is currently in a state of political cohabitation. “He does not have a single deputy in the Assemblée nationale,” Sonko remarked, referring to the President’s lack of direct legislative power. He insisted that the executive must recognize this reality and engage in discussions with the legislative majority. Currently, the Pastef party holds 130 of the 165 seats in the Assemblée nationale.

Prioritizing national interests over conflict

Despite the friction, Sonko expressed a willingness to support the administration’s success for the good of the country. He noted that while his party has the power to dissolve the government through a motion of censure within 72 hours, they have chosen not to do so. Instead, he argued for placing national interests above political disputes, warning that a cycle of institutional conflict would discourage international investment in Sénégal.

“We must avoid plunging this country back into the hardships it has faced,” Sonko added, referencing the period between 2021 and 2024. During those years, Sénégal experienced violent unrest and a heavy-handed response from the previous administration, resulting in numerous fatalities among young protesters. While calling for peace, Sonko also condemned what he described as provocations against his followers and urged the youth to maintain their composure in the face of current political challenges. This focus on governance Africa and society Africa remains central to the ongoing transition in the region.