Ousmane Sonko, who leads the majority party in Senegal and was recently removed from his position as Prime Minister, has confirmed that his loyalists will “support” the incoming administration. He has also issued a direct appeal to President Bassirou Diomaye Faye for “constructive dialogue,” aiming to prevent the nation from “descending back” into a state of crisis.

This marks Sonko’s initial public address since President Faye, his long-standing political partner and ally, relieved him of his duties on May 22. The dismissal reportedly stemmed from deep-seated disagreements, notably concerning the management of the West African nation’s substantial national debt.

During a press briefing in Dakar, Sonko disclosed that President Faye felt “a number of positions I had adopted recently were problematic and caused discomfort.” Notably, Sonko was elected President of the National Assembly just four days later, on May 26.

On Monday, President Faye unveiled a new 30-member cabinet, a lineup notably shunned by Ousmane Sonko.

“A nation demands seriousness! A government demands seriousness!” Sonko asserted on Tuesday evening, expressing his concern. “I perceive that President Diomaye may not fully grasp the gravity of forming a government… one does not assemble a government casually.”

He further elaborated, stating, “This situation is unprecedented. We witnessed the formation of a government yesterday that lacks a strong political base.” He contended that there was “no substantial or organized political legitimacy” supporting President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

“Whether he acknowledges it or not, we are currently in a state of cohabitation,” Sonko underscored, referring to the Head of State. “He commands no single deputy within the National Assembly. He does not wield absolute power. It is imperative that he descends from his high horse, and we engage in discussions.”

The Pastef party, led by Sonko, holds a significant majority with 130 out of 165 seats in the National Assembly.

“Our objective is to support him towards success,” Sonko affirmed. “Should Pastef choose, this government could collapse within 72 hours. However, we will not move to censure them; rather, we will offer our cooperation.”

He continued, “Let us prioritize the paramount interests of this nation. If we descend into a crisis involving dissolution or censure, foreign investment in Senegal will cease.” He then declared, “I advocate for intelligent and constructive political dialogue. We must prevent this country from relapsing into the turmoil it has previously endured.”

Between 2021 and 2024, Senegal was rocked by protests that were brutally suppressed under the previous administration of former President Macky Sall. These demonstrations tragically resulted in dozens of fatalities, primarily young individuals killed by gunfire.

“However, achieving peace requires the participation of both sides,” Sonko added, while also condemning recent “provocations” purportedly targeting his supporters. He concluded by urging the nation’s youth to “remain calm.”