Ousmane Sonko, leader of the PASTEF party, recently addressed the media to lift the veil on the circumstances surrounding his removal from office. His statements put an end to weeks of speculation about the reasons behind his departure from the administration of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. During the press conference, Sonko shared intimate details of the events leading to his departure, providing unprecedented clarity on a situation that had sparked intense public debate.
The confrontation unfolded at the Presidential Palace, where the Head of State personally summoned Sonko. According to the PASTEF leader, President Faye conveyed his decision to terminate their political alliance. « He stated that continuing our partnership was no longer viable, » Sonko recounted, adding that certain public statements made by Sonko had been cited as problematic. Confronted with this ultimatum, Sonko refused to comply without resistance: « I told him I would make it easy for him. If he wants to dismiss me, he should take full responsibility and do so. »
Before this decisive meeting, Sonko had proposed an alternative path to the President. He suggested stepping down from his ministerial position to assume the role of National Assembly Speaker while pledging unwavering support for the administration’s agenda. However, this proposal did not gain traction, leaving the political partnership at an impasse.
With resolute determination, Sonko emphasized that he would not bear the blame for the breakdown. « I couldn’t accept responsibility for this separation, » he declared, firmly distancing himself from any perception of voluntary resignation. His words underscored a deliberate stance against accepting an outcome he deemed unjustified.
