Sonko questions legitimacy of new cabinet

In his first major public address since his removal from the prime ministerial post on May 22, Sonko delivered a sharp critique of the government sworn in by President Faye on Monday. “A nation demands serious leadership, and a government must reflect that gravity,” he declared during a press conference in Dakar. He argued that the newly formed executive lacks “any structured political legitimacy,” warning that state affairs cannot be conducted in a vacuum.

Highlighting institutional realities, Sonko noted that his party, Pastef, holds a commanding majority in the National Assembly with 130 out of 165 seats—far exceeding the threshold needed to influence policy or trigger a confidence vote.

Pastef commits to stability over confrontation

While maintaining his criticism, Sonko struck a conciliatory tone, stating that his party could easily force the government’s collapse within 72 hours if it chose to. “We have the numbers to bring this government down tomorrow, but we won’t,” he said. “Instead, we will support it—provided it governs responsibly.” His remarks underscored a strategic shift toward prioritizing national stability over political brinkmanship, particularly to reassure investors and prevent a recurrence of the unrest that gripped Senegal between 2021 and 2024.

A call for constructive engagement

Sonko framed his outreach as a necessary step to avert further polarization. “We must avoid the mistakes of the past,” he cautioned, referencing the violent protests that marred Senegal’s recent political landscape. While condemning what he described as “provocations” against his supporters, he also urged Senegal’s youth to remain calm, emphasizing that “peace requires two willing parties.”