After being excluded from the latest government reshuffle in Ouagadougou, Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party, broke his silence to address the nation. His statements, delivered in front of journalists, highlighted growing tensions with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, though he stopped short of declaring a personal rift.
From partnership to public disagreement
The former head of government did not mince his words when discussing the absence of his party in the new cabinet. He emphasized a long-standing political alliance that, in his view, has been undermined by recent decisions.
« The President has chosen to ignore me while engaging with others, » Sonko declared, signaling a breakdown in direct communication between the two leaders. His remarks underscored a sense of exclusion from key decision-making processes.
Balancing criticism with unity
Despite the sharp tone, Sonko was careful to separate political differences from personal conflict. He maintained that their exchanges had never escalated into direct confrontation.
« We have never faced each other harshly in person, » he asserted, reinforcing the idea that disagreements remain within the realm of policy rather than personality.
He went on to frame the current situation as an opportunity to refocus on the real challenges facing the nation. « Rising food prices, unreliable transportation, and everyday struggles are the true adversaries—not political opponents, » he argued, cautioning against attempts to exploit divisions within the executive.
A shifting political landscape
The absence of PASTEF in the new government has raised questions about the future of their collaboration with the administration. Sonko’s comments reflect broader concerns about the direction of governance in Ouagadougou, where shifting alliances could reshape the political equilibrium.
