In a decisive move broadcast from the Palais de la République in Dakar, the Secretary-General of the Presidency, Oumar Samba Ba, formally announced the termination of Ousmane Sonko‘s role as Prime Minister of the Sénégal. This decision also extends to the entire government cabinet, whose members have been relieved of their duties.
According to the official decree, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye issued order number 2026-1128 on May 22, 2026, formally ending Sonko‘s tenure and dissolving the government. The departing ministers are now tasked with managing current affairs until further arrangements are made.
Relations between Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Ousmane Sonko had grown increasingly strained over recent months. Sonko, a former political mentor to Faye, had initially been barred from contesting the 2024 presidential election. Following Sonko‘s disqualification, Faye emerged as his substitute, ultimately securing victory. Observers note that this cabinet reshuffle signals a significant realignment within Sénégal‘s leadership.
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