President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal officially unveiled a new government on Monday. This cabinet includes several members and allies of Ousmane Sonko’s Pastef party, despite Sonko’s public announcement that his political formation would not participate in the new administration. This development is a significant moment in Senegal’s current affairs, reflecting the evolving political landscape.

The announcement of the new government follows by approximately ten days President Faye’s decision to dismiss Ousmane Sonko from his position as Prime Minister. Both leaders emerged from the Pastef party, a formidable force in Senegalese politics, with Sonko now holding the influential role of President of the National Assembly.

The political separation between these two prominent figures has created a period of considerable uncertainty for Senegal, a nation already grappling with a severe financial crisis. This division marks a pivotal moment in African governance, highlighting internal party dynamics.

Sonko has since been succeeded by Ahmadou Al Aminou Mohamed Lô as Prime Minister. On Monday, Lô presented a list of 30 ministers, notably excluding several high-profile Pastef officials who had served in the previous government. Minutes before this announcement, Sonko, the leader of Pastef, confirmed via social media that his party would not be joining the new government.

«Disagreement»

Sonko’s statement detailed a lengthy discussion held earlier that morning between himself, as party President, and the President of the Republic. While acknowledging certain areas of agreement, the statement emphasized significant points of disagreement, particularly concerning the role and position of the majority within the executive framework. The communiqué further explained that following a feedback meeting with party leadership, new proposals were submitted to the President, but these did not receive a favorable response. Consequently, Pastef – Les Patriotes declared its non-participation in the forthcoming government, asserting that no minister would represent the party.

Despite Pastef’s official stance, the new government includes less publicly known allies and members of the party. Notable appointments include Moussa Bala Fofana as Minister of Urbanism and Yankhoba Diémé, who now oversees the Armed Forces portfolio. Furthermore, President Faye has retained several ministers from the previous administration, such as Cheikh Diba in Finance, Moustapha Mamba Guirassy for Education, and Cheikh Tidiane Dièye in Sanitation.