Late on Friday, May 22, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye officially terminated the mandate of his Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, along with that of the entire government cabinet.

The presidential decree, which was broadcast on national television by the Secretary-General of the Presidency, Oumar Samba Ba, stipulates that the outgoing ministers are now responsible for managing “current affairs” until a new administration is formed.

From political guide to governmental rival

This dramatic decision signifies a profound rift between the two prominent figures who jointly ascended to power in 2024. Ousmane Sonko, having been legally barred from contesting the presidential election, had strategically endorsed Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the substitute candidate to challenge then-incumbent President Macky Sall.

Bolstered by significant support from Senegal’s youth and advocating a robust pan-Africanist agenda, Sonko played an instrumental role in securing the new leadership’s electoral triumph.

However, over recent months, the underlying tensions between the head of state and his former political mentor had become increasingly apparent.

Sonko’s immediate public reaction

Moments after the announcement of his removal, Ousmane Sonko took to Facebook, posting: “Alhamdoulillah. Ce soir je dormirai le cœur léger” (Praise be to God. Tonight I will sleep with a light heart).

Following his statement, several videos circulated across social media platforms, depicting throngs of supporters converging on his residence in Dakar, passionately chanting his name.

Sonko’s departure ushers in a period of considerable political uncertainty for Senegal, particularly given that his party has maintained a strong majority in the National Assembly since the legislative elections held in November 2024.