Sonko questions legitimacy of new government
In his first public address since his removal from office on May 22, Ousmane Sonko delivered a scathing assessment of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s recently appointed cabinet. “A nation is a serious matter, governance is a serious matter,” declared the Pastef leader during a press briefing in Dakar, arguing that the new executive lacks “any structured political legitimacy.” Sonko emphasized that the President must acknowledge the existing parliamentary balance of power, particularly since Pastef commands a commanding majority with 130 of 165 seats in the National Assembly.
Pastef commits to constructive engagement
While maintaining sharp criticism, Sonko clarified that his party would not pursue motions of no confidence against the government. “If Pastef wanted, this government could collapse within 72 hours. We choose not to,” he stated. The Assembly President underscored the urgent need to maintain national stability, warning that political uncertainty could deter investors and destabilize Senegal’s economic prospects.
Call for calm and dialogue
Amid lingering tensions between former allies, Sonko issued a plea for “intelligent and constructive political dialogue.” He cautioned against repeating past cycles of unrest, referencing the violent protests that gripped Senegal between 2021 and 2024. While condemning what he described as provocations against his supporters, Sonko urged Senegalese youth to remain calm, asserting that “peace requires two willing parties.”