Sénégal political split between president and former pm sonko
The Senegalese presidency has experienced a dramatic fracture as President Bassirou Diomaye Faye terminated the mandate of his former ally and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko on May 22, ending months of escalating tensions between the two leaders who jointly rose to power in April 2024.
Once inseparable allies under the slogan « Diomaye Moy Sonko » (« Diomaye is Sonko » in Wolof), President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko have officially ended their political partnership. The duo, who together overthrew the previous administration led by President Macky Sall in April 2024, now find themselves at loggerheads.
Ousmane Sonko’s path to the presidency was blocked by a defamation conviction that stripped him of his civil rights. He then threw his support behind Bassirou Diomaye Faye, assuming he could remain in control while securing the top government position for himself.
For twelve years, the two men were united under the banner of the African Patriots of Senegal for Work, Ethics and Fraternity (Pastef). Despite their long-standing alliance, their relationship has deteriorated significantly since assuming power two years ago. The growing rift culminated in the president’s decision to dismiss his former ally.
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