The systematic replacement of officials aligned with Ousmane Sonko in public administrations is more than a routine administrative shuffle. Observers note that Bassirou Diomaye Faye is quietly building a long-term strategy: creating a network of political figures « Diomaye-compatible » who will ultimately solidify both the presidential coalition and the future ruling party’s presence across the nation.

This gradual approach carries significant political risks for Sonko’s movement. By systematically nurturing a pool of loyal administrators, the current administration may push some of the most influential patriotic activists—currently heading key public agencies—to formally distance themselves from their former mentor. Over time, this could leave Pastef on the sidelines of the very state apparatus it helped establish.

Ousmane Sonko’s decision to block his close associates from joining the new government, following his own removal, has not been universally welcomed within his inner circle. Reports indicate that former minister Birame Souleye Diop, long considered a key figure in the party, was among those advocating for maintaining patriotic representation in the executive branch.

One opposition figure, speaking on condition of anonymity, described this move as calculated. According to this source, Sonko aimed to prevent his ministers, once in government, from being gradually absorbed into the presidential orbit rather than remaining loyal to the party.

This power struggle over political and administrative influence unfolds against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the two former allies, exacerbated by disagreements over constitutional reform. The critical question remains: will the « compatible pool » strategy be enough to ensure the president’s political consolidation, or will it further fracture an already fragile coalition weakened by defections?