Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye officially terminated the mandate of his Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko – his former political mentor – along with the entire cabinet on Friday evening via presidential decree. This significant move follows months of escalating friction between the two prominent figures in Senegalese politics.

The announcement, read on national television by Oumar Samba Ba, the Secretary General of the Presidency, confirmed that President Faye “has ended the functions of Mr. Ousmane Sonko, Prime Minister, and consequently, those of the ministers and secretaries of state who were members of the government.”

The official statement further stipulated that “the members of the outgoing government are instructed to manage current affairs” during this transitional period in Senegal’s governance.

Ousmane Sonko, a vocal opponent of former President Macky Sall (2012-2024), was famously barred from contesting the February 2024 presidential election. This disqualification stemmed from a defamation conviction that led to the loss of his civil rights, triggering widespread popular demonstrations against President Sall and the possibility of him seeking a controversial third term.

In a pivotal moment for African politics, Mr. Sonko then designated Bassirou Diomaye Faye as his chosen successor. However, since Mr. Faye’s electoral victory, the relationship between the president and his charismatic former mentor, whose considerable influence was instrumental in propelling their political duo to power, has been marked by growing discord.

Sonko’s compelling pan-Africanist rhetoric had ignited fervent enthusiasm among Senegal’s disillusioned youth in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential race, particularly after a protracted standoff with Macky Sall’s administration.

Reacting swiftly to the news, Mr. Sonko posted on his Facebook account, stating, “Alhamdoulillah. Tonight I will sleep with a light heart in Cité Keur Gorgui,” referring to his Dakar residence. Shortly after the announcement of his dismissal, videos circulated across social media platforms showing Sonko’s supporters converging on his home, chanting his name in a clear display of public solidarity.

For several months, the underlying tensions between the head of state and the head of government had become increasingly apparent, casting doubt on the long-term viability of their political partnership.

Adding another layer to the complex dynamics of society Africa, Mr. Sonko’s party holds a commanding majority within the Senegalese National Assembly, having secured an overwhelming victory in the legislative elections held in November 2024.