This decision marks the culmination of several months of escalating tensions between the two prominent figures, who together rose to power in April 2024 on a wave of widespread public optimism. On Friday, May 22, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye formally parted ways with his Prime Minister and former political ally, Ousmane Sonko. A statement, delivered on national television by the Secretary-General of the Presidency, declared that the President had “terminated the mandate of Mr. Ousmane Sonko as Prime Minister, and consequently, that of all ministers and secretaries of state within the government.” The announcement further stipulated that “members of the outgoing government are instructed to manage current affairs.” No immediate details were provided regarding the appointment of a successor for the prime ministerial role.

Ever since President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s electoral victory, friction had steadily intensified between him and his charismatic Prime Minister, who was once his mentor. Sonko’s considerable sway was a critical factor in propelling their political partnership to the highest office. A staunch critic of former President Macky Sall (2012-2024), Ousmane Sonko was barred from contesting the 2024 presidential election himself due to a defamation conviction that resulted in the loss of his civil rights. It was at that juncture that he endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye to run in his stead.

However, in early May, the President publicly voiced concerns over what he termed the “excessive personalization” of his Prime Minister within the ruling party. During a televised interview, President Faye explicitly stated, “As long as he remains Prime Minister, it is because he retains my confidence. Should that no longer be the case, a new Prime Minister will be appointed.” Responding promptly on Friday, Ousmane Sonko posted on his Facebook account, saying, “Alhamdoulillah. Tonight I will sleep with a light heart in Keur Gorgui city,” referring to his Dakar residence.