In an official communiqué released on June 1, 2026, PASTEF-Les Patriotes, under the leadership of Ousmane Sonko, formally announced its decision to abstain from joining the new governmental structure established by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. The party articulated that fundamental differences concerning the executive’s organization were irreconcilable, confirming that none of its official members would hold positions within the new administration.

Despite this public stance, the cabinet, now under the stewardship of Prime Minister Ahmadou Al-Aminou Lo, features a notable number of individuals. These figures are widely recognized in Senegalese political circles for their close association with either the broader PASTEF movement or the immediate entourage of its prominent leader, Ousmane Sonko.

key sonko allies appointed to Senegal’s new cabinet

Among the recently appointed ministers, several are publicly identified as strong proponents of the political vision championed by Ousmane Sonko and Bassirou Diomaye Faye during the pivotal 2024 presidential election campaign. These include Yankhoba Diémé, now Minister of Armed Forces; Cheikh Tidiane Dièye, overseeing Hydraulics and Sanitation; Ibrahim Sy, appointed Minister of Health and Public Hygiene; Marie Angélique Mame Selbe Diouf, heading the Ministry of Family and Solidarities; and Déthié Fall, who takes on the portfolio of Minister of Infrastructure.

These individuals are generally perceived as integral members of the presidential movement or key allies from political coalitions that played a crucial role in securing Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s electoral victory.

Conversely, other members of the government are largely seen as independent experts or political personalities whose careers do not indicate a direct affiliation with the PASTEF party. This group includes figures such as Cheikh Diba, Cheikh Niang, and Boubacar Camara, whose professional backgrounds are not directly linked to partisan membership within PASTEF.