The political fracture between Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko in Sénégal

The inevitable rupture between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko has finally manifested in Sénégal. Following his removal from the executive branch, Sonko has retreated to the National Assembly to consolidate his influence.

Had he been more clairvoyant, Ousmane Sonko might have recognized the National Assembly as the perfect strategic hideout to wait for the 2029 elections, particularly after the massive victory of his party, Pastef, in the November 2024 legislative polls. Instead, he likely believed that by staying close to the presidency, he could prevent Bassirou Diomaye Faye from growing too attached to the ultimate seat of power. He attempted to manage executive duties alongside Faye, who initially seemed content with a more symbolic role. However, the nature of power is transformative, and as history warns, the one who facilitates another’s rise to the throne often risks their own downfall.

A predictable confrontation in Sénégal politics

The presidential system in Sénégal is inherently centralized, leaving little room for anyone other than the Head of State. Even a powerful Prime Minister is ultimately just a first among equals. As Sonko felt increasingly restricted within the government, the turning point arrived in July 2025 when the Supreme Court upheld the sentence making him ineligible for 2029.

With his political future darkening and feeling a lack of support from Faye, the political fighter in Sonko re-emerged. As institutional doors closed, he turned back to populist agitation to reclaim his standing. His takeover of the National Assembly, driven by sheer numbers, has faced accusations of illegality from a weakened opposition. Yet, only President Faye has the authority to challenge this move through the Conseil constitutionnel, and for now, he has chosen to remain silent.

Strategic calculations and the road to 2029

In the historical shadow of Lat Dior Diop—the legendary 19th-century resistance leader against colonial expansion—nothing in Sénégal is ever straightforward. This is a high-stakes game of African politics involving two primary actors with a single objective: the 2029 presidency. On one side is the calculated Bassirou Diomaye Faye, and on the other is the tempestuous Ousmane Sonko, the “Djambar.”

The two leaders possess different arsenals. President Diomaye Faye controls the state institutions and the law. Ousmane Sonko relies on a disciplined party and a base of fervent supporters, unafraid of pushing boundaries. While Sonko holds a strong position in the Assembly, his standing is precarious, facing the threat of dissolution or legal challenges regarding his reintroduction as a deputy.

Meanwhile, Faye appears to be biding his time. Having distanced himself from the overbearing presence of Sonko, he is working with his new Prime Minister, Ahmadou Al Aminou Lô, to stabilize the nation’s economy and engage with international financial institutions. This period of governance Africa observers are watching closely suggests that Faye is fortifying his position, preparing for the inevitable confrontation that lies ahead. In the evolving society Africa faces today, this internal struggle remains a defining moment for independent African journalism to document.